Author: Robert Francis

Format: Audiobook

Release Date: 06-04-2010

Details: "I know that for some musicians, writing songs is like therapy and the way they get their emotions out," says Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Robert Francis. "But for me it's more than an outlet - it's a way to keep me from completely losing my mind." Such an intense statement may sound like the drama of being 21, which Francis is, but listen to the two albums that he's created, 2007's indie release One By One and his upcoming major-label debut Before Nightfall, and it becomes clear that it's true . As NPR has noted about Francis' modern take on timeless American rock: "He has laid himself out in song and created some incredibly moving and beautiful musical moments." Francis' frankness goes down easier than you'd think thanks to his husky baritone voice, finger-picked acoustic melodies, and uncluttered arrangements. Burnished by his keyboard work (Francis plays piano, Mellotron, Hammond B3, Wurlitzer, Farfisa organ, and Solina synth), bandmate Graham Lathrop's elegant pedal steel guitar, and backing vocals from Francis' sisters Juliette and Carla Commagere, the songs on Before Nightfall glow with an earthy, homespun quality that draws on everything from country, to folk, to blues, to roots rock. Highlights include "Climb a Mountain," which features slide guitar from one of Francis' early mentors, Ry Cooder (his sister Juliette's father-in-law), the heartfelt country-tinged "Playground," and closing acoustic ballad "Do What I Can," where the emotion is so palpable, you can hear Francis' voice quaver as he slides into his upper-register. On Before Nightfall, Francis enlisted Grammy Award-winning producer D. Sardy (Oasis, Red Hot Chili Peppers, among many others), whom he credits with "helping me come into my own with my voice". Robert is currently on a US Tour supporting Priscilla Ahn.

UPC: 075678958441

EAN: 0075678958441

Languages: English

Binding: Audio CD

Item Note: Cut On The Spine

Item Condition: UsedAcceptable