Neal Francis serves stellar vibes with new tracks

By Harry Bates

The lively piano riff at the top of “Can’t Stop The Rain” says it all: Neal Francis (he/him) is back and ready to share the second iteration of his infectious groove with the world. The Chicago-based singer-songwriter and piano prodigy released two bustling singles ahead of his Nov. 5 album release In Plain Sight. And, if I may just say so myself, these rocking works propel Francis into a modern realm of his own. He signed on with ATO Records in August — the label co-founded by Dave Matthews in 2000 — so industry executives are taking notice of Francis’ talent. Here’s a breakdown of the appetizer to In Plain Sight:

Can’t Stop The Rain (Released: Aug. 17)

There’s no other way to describe this sound as anything other than a gate opening to a new chapter of Francis’ brilliance. It feels as though this sound details an awakening in Francis’ artistry — the dawn of a new beginning. One can’t hold back the need to drop their head in the moment of acceleration. It feels familiar, drawing on obvious influence from late-sixties and early-seventies classics, but Francis adds a modern twist to the vibe. The song holds this structure of a modern pop song, but with the stellar, beat-focused instrumentals of the likes of The Band and Canned Heat. Francis’ unique use of folk, rock, and groove genres make for a sound that almost anyone can connect with, and “Can’t Stop The Rain” exemplifies this point best.

Alameda Apartments (Released: Sept. 21)

This song, I mean, come on. “Alameda Apartments” transports listeners into an oasis of mind. The melodic combination of Francis’ lyric delivery paired with the unreal stylings of Francis and the accompanying band — unreal is an understatement here — creates a truly individual listening experience. Francis’ voice syncs perfectly with the tone of the accompanying instruments, creating a song that is unified in its lyrics and instrumentals. It feels authentic, vivid, and, most importantly, pulling. Its story is reminiscent in style to the works of Bernie Taupin, and it has a heartbeat rhythm to match this alluring fable. The Song concludes with a rocking “jam sesh” that leaves its listeners wanting more; leading many of them to play the song over-and-over again … for three-hours … in the Iwasaki Library. It’s the perfect storytelling song to get lost in, as it features an incredible band sound that is missing from modern music.

If these songs are any indication of what’s to come with In Plain Sight’s November debut, we’re in luck. “Can’t Stop The Rain,” and “Alameda Apartments” set the stage for a well-rounded album that can fit the scene of both weekdays and weekends. I look forward to blasting Francis’ new music to warm up those crisp, autumn New England nights ahead.