I was introduced to THE ART OF TEA by a very laid back architecture student while I was studying graphic design at the QCA in the mid-1980's. I had never heard of Michael Franks before, nor had I ever listened to jazz/pop. THE ART OF TEA instantly resonated with me and became my late night study companion. My new friend must have known that I was in need of these smooth sounds.
Michael Franks creates music which is soothing, mellow and carefree; something which was missing from my record collection in the 1980's. Up until that point, my record collection was focussed on what I considered to be vital and contemporary, rather than music which I actually enjoyed listening to.
Michael Franks studied comparative literature, earning a BA from UCLA and his masters from the University of Oregon. It was while teaching part-time at UCLA, that Michael Franks began songwriting.
THE ART OF TEA, his second release, is gentle, jazzy and very smart. Michael Franks has a voice which is as intimate and subtle as the musicians which accompany him. Listen closely and THE ART OF TEA will be revealed.
SONGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
"Eggplant"
"Monkey See - Monkey Do"
"Popsicle Toes"