Search - The Free Design :: There Is a Song

KITE ARE FUN

THOMAS MALMGREN | GAVLE Sweden | 10/17/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The first album by this wonderful but sadly unlooked group is a good introduction to newcomers. To give a better description of the sound you have to imagine a combination of Bubblegum, Folk rock, Modern classical music and Psychedelia. The fundament of the group is the wonderful craftmanship of leader Chris Dedrick's songwriting and production. The arrangements are adventurous but at the same time within the frames of commercial music. The barockesque "Proper ornaments" and the stunning ballad "Don't turn away" are among the best in their catalogue while "Make the madness stop" and "Umbrellas" are examples of their flexible creativity. The only hit they ever had leads off this album and is the only testament of their chart input. They didn't find their vocalstyle and blend until the recruitement of younger sister Ellen Dedrick but it was a solid platform for their coming glories. A must for harmony group addicts."

Over-priced and disappointing selection of songs

THOMAS MALMGREN | 05/30/2001

(2 out of 5 stars)

"As a long-time fan of the Free Design, I was looking forward to this CD, even though the price was steep... I was so disappointed that I am putting it up for sale. While the arrangements are the usually excellent Free Design, the choice of songs are very religious in orientation (6 out of 12). Also, the number of selections is only 12. I expect more for that amount of money. The packaging is Japanese, so the information on the songs is slight."

Stellar Vocal Work

THOMAS MALMGREN | 12/29/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

""There Is A Song" is probably the Free Design's most mature work. The vocal precision approaches that of Singers Unlimited, but the harmonies are more like progressive folk. The vocal blend between these siblings rings sweet and light. They tackle some light spiritual themes with some of these songs, but no heavy religion. The songs feature a lot of pop hooks...catchy, sticks-in-your-head stuff. The sound and style are definitely dated, but probably less so than, say, the Mamas and the Papas. Childlike, light, bright. I am so glad this is in print again and intend to foist it on my friends."