Last Tuesday, I introduced you to Robert Francis, a singer/songwriter from California. His album "One By One" is one of my favorites and I highly recommend it. His first major record label release, "Before Nightfall", is out now via iTunes for $7.99 now, or you can wait until the 20th, when it is released in stores.
His lead single, "Junebug" is the Single Of The Week on iTunes and you can download it for FREE by clicking here.
Well, what are you waiting for?! Download it. Listen to it. And let us all know what you think!
I know I have been a bit heavy on the pop music here, so let's balance it out with and indie artist you probably haven't heard of but should; Robert Francis. Robert Francis is one of my favorite artists. He is a 22 year old singer/songwriter from LA, but sounds much wiser and accomplished. His critically acclaimed album, One By One, was released by a smaller label in 2007, when he was just 19 years old. It is difficult to describe Robert's music - he sounds very indie, with elements of bluegrass and folk, and a lot of emotion. It simply works. It is Robert Francis and his music - I don't think anyone else can write/sing/produce this material. The album was nominated for The Shortlist Music Prize. He recently signed with Atlantic and is set to release his "debut" album, "Before Nightfall" on October 13th via iTunes and a physical release on the 20th.
About two years ago, a friend lent me a copy of the album and I added them to my iPod and didn't think much of it. I usually have all my music on shuffle and the song "One by One" would capture my attention and would practically reduce me to tears. It is such a beautiful song. It is very haunting and makes me think of my childhood and happy memories, although the song is not too cheerful. I love the instruments, the arrangements. The track features Robert's sister singing the chorus and her voice is beautiful.
Other amazing tracks on the album include the albums first track, "Mama Don't Come". It is a beautiful song and has a great folk/indie sound to it. "Alice" and "All My Trains" are also standout tracks. "Little Girl" is one of his more known songs and is also beautiful. Robert Francis has a very distinct sound and quality in his songs, and it's very appealing. And this track captures that feeling and the emotions.
Here's the man himself talking about the album, "One By One":
His new record, "Before Nightfall" has 11 new songs and the song "One by One". Here he is again, talking about the album:
Robert Francis is currently on tour, check out his Official Website for all the dates and details. And if you're wondering what he sounds like live, here's is a taste. On March 5, 2009, Robert Francis was on Last Call with Carson Daily, and here is the video: Robert Francis on Last Call with Carson Daly (3/5/2009)
