The First Three Years Explained

The First Three Years
Type:compilation
Artist:Frank Turner
Cover:Thefirstthreeyears.jpg
Released:1 December 2008
Recorded:2005–2008
Genre:Folk rock
Length:60:18
Label:Xtra Mile
Producer:Martin Price and George Elliott
Prev Title:Love Ire & Song
Prev Year:2008
Next Title:Poetry of the Deed
Next Year:2009

The First Three Years is a compilation album by singer-songwriter Frank Turner, released 1 December 2008 through Xtra Mile Recordings. The compilation is also included on the re-release of Love Ire & Song, released 26 January 2009. The album itself is only available directly from Xtra Mile.

The album compiles material that does not appear on either of Turner's first two studio albums, including tracks from early EPs, split singles, covers and unreleased material. The collection also includes a cover of "Smiling at Strangers on Trains" – Turner's former band, Million Dead's, first single.

The title and cover artwork reference the Black Flag album The First Four Years, a similar compilation of early material.