Michael Franks - Dragonfly Summer (12 tracks) +Album Reviews

Welcome Return

James Fenos | Columbus, OH United States | 11/17/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Michael released "Dragonfly Summer after a three year hiatus. What a wonderful return. The opener "Coming To Life" is an upbeat tune where Michael seems like he's singing about the start of this album itself. All of the songs are winners, I sometimes wonder what the outtakes are like, given the overall quality of the songs here. "Soul Mate" not only turned me on to Jeff Lorber, but also introduced me to Eric Benet, he's singing the harmony vocal. Not only is Michael talented, but the people he surrounds himself with, wow! The title track is fun, "Monk's New Tune" is about as late night jazz as Michael gets. "I Love Lucy" is that "I Love Lucy," the only cover Michael has recorded, save for a couple Christmas songs. The song is transformed from a Cuban lounge style to a romantic Brazilian influenced love song, the orchestration is glorious. "Practice Makes Perfect" is fun, "String Of Pearls" is a beautiful song, moving at a nice tempo featuring accoustic guitar and a woodwind solo. "Keeping My Eye On You" is a duet with Dan Hicks, it tells a story about two friends who are a bit wary of each other, they want the same girl. " The Dream" is a huge production number produced by the Yellowjackets. Michael would later record this song live, with Brenda Russell and Marilyn Scott handling background duty. "You Were Meant For Me" is a duet with Michael's muse, Peggy Lee, whose voice is tragically gone. This song is so gentle, it caresses what's left of Peggy's voice and Michael restrains himself, the end result is sweet. "How I Remember You" is a Michael formula jazz song, a great way to close this richly arranged and totally enjoyble album."

Up there with the best

Wayne Eagleson | Brisbane , Australia | 08/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I rate "Dragonfly Summer" up there with the best from the truly unique artist, Michael Franks. As a long standing listener of this quite different artist, I had lapsed in my support, due somewhat to the non-existent airplay received in Australia. So, via the internet,I was able to sample songs from more recent (5 years) CDs. Favourite songs on this CD are "String of Pearls", "How I remember You", and the title track. There aren't too many artists that can transport your mind and heart to wherever you want to go, but as you take that walk, flight,or drive along some sandy coastline, you could do no better than to be listening to "Dragonly Summer" as you go."

BRILLIANT ALBUM TO START WITH !

bispro | France | 12/31/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I discovered that album one day in a store and was hooked right away. I used to have older albums by Franks, which I loved, but this was incredible because Franks had managed so brilliantly to adapt to a more modern sound.This remained my favorite Michael Franks album until 'Abandoned Garden' came out. I'd say it's the perfect album to get started on his music, as it displays a variety of uptempo and slow songs, jazz numbers and pop tunes, funny and nostalgic lyrics. There's something for everyone in this album, but the genius of Michael Franks is to make it all sound like a coherent piece of work.Great album which will provide hours upon hours of exciting listening."

Michael Comes Full Circle To Make His Best Work

Edgar Watson II | Muskegon, MI | 07/11/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Dragonfly Summer is my favorite MF album. The key thing to consider is everything that happened previously. The first five albums (Art of Tea - One Bad Habit) were mostly smooth jazz with great arrangements played by the Crusaders, etc. Then for the next several albums (Objects of Desire - The Camera Never Lies) Michael became more (not totally, just more) electronic and synthesized using producer Rob Mounsey. Good material because it was Michael but a severe dropoff for those desiring the more acoustic sound of the previous projects. Then after a break came Blue Pacific which combined the acoustic with the electronic. A wonderful project...but only a setup for the true masterpiece: Dragonfly Summer.

Dragonfly Summer was in the same vein as Pacific except Michael's method of compiling multiple styles was more polished and consistent. The result was an album that showed Franks coming full circle and showering us with the cumulative knowledge of his experiences on both sides of the fence. Without going into a blow by blow of each individual song I'll just leave you with this challenge. By the time you get to "I Love Lucy" you'll be blown away, and that's just the first half. When you get to "How I Remember You" which ends the last half you'll be in love with love and all else that's special to you.

For anyone who liked Michael Franks but was wary of his new directions: Don't be afraid...it's okay, come on into this CD...the water's warm again. For those who know MF a little: It's okay. Come inside and relax to the warmth and shelter of Dragonfly Summer. As for the rest of you: there will be much weeping and gnashing of teeth once you go through life and find out what you missed out on."

A gentle, mellow, relaxing dose of the warm fuzzies

ishumandds@erols.com | Glen Burnie, Maryland | 12/06/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This was the fourth album I owned by Franks. It definitely has his unique vocal signature and sound. Of course, his album title Dragonfly Summer is a truly subtle mix of lilting instrumentations and Frank's smooth, gentle voice. It is a must for any collection."

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