 Michael
Franks, the consummate writer of metaphorical lyrics and
innuendos, has done it again with his newest offering. Rendezvous
in Rio, released on Koch Records, is the latest
in a long career filled with whimsical wordings and pictures
painted so vividly. This time around, Michael brings
in a terrific group of musicians to join him on some fun
tracks, as well as a few more sophisticated offerings. Notables
such as Jeff Lorber, Chuck Loeb, Eric Marienthal, Dwight
Sills, Alex Al along with longtime members of Michael’s
band, Charles Blenzig, Chris Hunter, and Veronica Nunn, add
diversity and flavor to this CD.
The CD opens with “Under the Sun,” a story of
Michael’s annual trek out of the New York winter and
into the Florida sunshine. This track is produced by
Chuck Loeb and also features his wife, Carmen Cuesta Loeb,
on vocals. The title track, “Rendezvous in Rio” is
up next, again painting a picture of warm breezes and beaches. Charles
Blenzig gives a truly classic piano solo mid-song, and the
samba beat makes you want to dance along.
Things are slowed way down with “The Cool School.” As
always, Michael tells his story with vivid images. Chuck
Loeb provides a steady, melodic guitar that adds a soft and
gentle feel. Continuing with the Latin rhythms, the
playful tune “Samba do Soho” offers wonderful
harmonizing by Michael and Pamela Driggs. “The
Critics Are Never Kind” is a very interesting song. With
three male vocals, Michael, Robbie Dupree and Larry Happen,
the song is about the lives of Degas, Gauguin and Van Gogh
and is from the musical Noa Noa. The lyrics
are very introspective and razor sharp. It talks about
how critics thrive on the negative and don’t understand
creativity and the inspiration behind it. Another introspective
tune is “Hearing ‘Take Five’.” This
is a personal tribute to the tune “Take Five” and
how it resonated with Michael. Along with his voice,
we are treated to Eric Marienthal, Andy Suzuki, and Jimmy
Haslip bringing this old classic to life.
Now onto two tracks that were produced by Jeff Lorber. “Scatsville” offers
terrific, fun-filled lyrics and an up-tempo melody. This
is a classic Michael Franks tune, with picturesque wording
and catchy music. Jeff Lorber provides the keys and
there is a nice little sax solo from Gary Meek. Michael
does awesome scatting on this, too. “The Chemistry
of Love” is a gentle and peaceful track that just showcases
Michael’s sweet voice. Gary Meek this time provides
the flute that sings right along with Michael and feels like
a gentle breeze. If you like the old-time feel of a
Michael Franks song, then tune into “The Question Is
Why” featuring Eric Marienthal on sax. The song
starts off with a great jazz feel and morphs into a melodic,
beat-driven tune. Eric offers a solo that adds richness
to the song. The CD closes with “Songbirds.” This
is a tribute to songwriter Randy Vanwarmer, who died at age
48, and was famous for the 1978 song “Just When I Needed
You Most.” This is a tender tune designed to
let the listeners know who Randy was and how his creativity
will never be replaced.
For fans of Michael Franks, you will thoroughly enjoy this
CD. Once again, Michael has not only given us his playful
lyrics, but a glimpse into his personal thoughts and experiences. This
is a wonderful addition to the Michael Franks collection.
- Bonnie Schendell
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