Colleen Francis
Dallas, TX | Established. Jan 01, 2015 | SELF
Music
Press
Review: Colleen Francis - Golden Cage EP
8/11/2015 0 Comments
Picture
Artist Colleen Francis is a singer who is formerly a singer for the band Scarlett Seven, a band that also included Lori Lee, who is probably best known for her relation to Evanescence's Amy Lee. This time, Francis is doing a solo project, which includes this John Mayer and Adele-influenced EP titled Golden Cage.
While this album has a modern sound that certainly reflects Francis' influences, it's an EP that would definitely fit in just as well in the 70s as it does in 2015. In my opinion, that's a wonderful thing, because it is a good sign that the EP probably won't sound dated later on.
Indeed, this EP oozes with cool. It's light, fun, and very well-made. I didn't grow up in the 70s, but if this is what the 70s sounded like, then they must have been pretty fun.
Francis' vocals and lyrics are undoubtedly the standout attraction here. However, credit should also be given to her backing band known as Dynamo. They flesh out her sound with guitars, horns, and a killer rhythm section. I think they are what really give the songs that light and funky 70s feel, almost like a Motown record.
Aside from the music, perhaps the greatest thing about this EP is its replay value. The songs aren't that long at all; the longer songs are only longer because of the extended jams. Basically, it doesn't feel like it's dragging at all. It makes me want to listen to it over and over again.
Conclusion: Nashville-based singer-songwriter Colleen Francis delivers a cool EP full of infectious hooks and fun songs.
Overall: 8/10
Favorite Songs: Give Me Something Real; Free; Dude Like You - Seth Parker
#MusicMonday Colleen Francis
In our #MusicMonday of the week we invite you to discover Colleen Francis, a Nashville-based singer/songwriter. She just released her debut EP entitled “Golden Cage” mixing soul and pop sounds that will put you in a good mood for the day!
In her most recent solo project, Colleen has teamed up with the Nashville based jam/funk fusion band Dynamo to create a blend of pop music and sultry vocals. With influences such as Lauren Hill, Stevie Nix, and Jason Mraz, her songwriting utilizes witty, playful lyricism to emphasize freedom from conformity and finding your true self.
Colleen supported Musicians without Borders through a benefit concert on June 21st in Columbia, South Carolina, an event that raised more than $300 to support our projects. - Musician's Without Borers
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
Photos
Bio
Colleen Francis is a sultry singer-songwriter born and raised in
Columbia, South Carolina. She began songwriting at the young age of seven. After she turned 18, she moved to Nashville where she cofounded alt. rock band, Scarlett Seven,
with Lori Lee (of Solstice). When the band unexpectedly split after their first
album, Colleen went looking for a more retro, soulful sound and teamed up with
soul/funk fusion band, Dynamo, and producer Harold Elie. In 2015, she released
her debut solo album, Golden Cage and hit the road to Dallas. Now, after years of
collaborating with bands like Scarlett Seven and Dynamo, Colleen is stripping
down the production and getting to the heart of her songs. In her performances,
her magnetic vocals pull you in and out of verses about love, desire, heartbreak,
and growing up. The change of heart comes down to what Colleen says, “As I grow
up, so does my music.” So in 2016, Colleen is peeling back the curtain, and revealing
her inner songwriter, no smoke and mirrors, just a passionate girl with a
message.
Band Members
Links