recorded three songs for their first release. The "Rainsnowmatch" 7-inch came out in December on Enclave Records. While Rainsnowmatch was being released, the band began recording their debut album. Frankie Welfare Boy Age 5 was released in June 1995 on Divot Records. With a huge backlog of written material, Braid continued to write and record songs for various compilation appearances and 7-inch releases. Starting in July 1995, Braid began their first national tour. They played traditional venues, such as bars and clubs, but also booked shows in the homes of fans and VFW halls. Whenever there was a break in touring, Braid booked recording sessions and began work on their second album. In July 1996, "The Age of Octeen' was released on Mud Records. Also in 1996, the "I'm Afraid of Everything" 7-inch was released on the band's own label, Grand Theft Autumn. By 1997, touring schedules had begun to take their toll on Ewing, who in March decided to leave the band. With Ewing's blessing, Damon Atkinson became the band's drummer and joined them on their spring tour. That spring also saw Nanna graduate from college, allowing them to become a full-time band. Braid celebrated their new freedom by going on a headlining tour of Europe, with their friends The Get Up Kids opening. However, after the first night, the two bands decided to switch the playing order because of the popularity of The Get Up Kids in Europe. After the European tour, Braid returned to the North America for another tour of the U.S. and Canada. Frame and Canvas: 1998 In late 1997, Braid recorded their third LP Frame & Canvas at Inner Ear Studios with producer J. Robbins. The album was released by Polyvinyl Records in April 1998, receiving critical acclaim and brought Braid greater exposure, eventually being regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 1990s emo movement. With the release of Frame & Canvas, they embarked on a new tour of the East Coast with Compound Red, and a Midwest/West Coast tour with The Get Up Kids. The band also played a number of dates with All and Less Than Jake. After tours of the contiguous US, Braid also toured Japan and Hawaii in April 1999. Final recordings and disbandment: 1998–1999 Shortly after the release of Frame & Canvas, the effects of non-stop touring and recording were pulling the band members apart, including