Posted on: April 4, 2016 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Stewart Francke is able to create a timeless sort of rock that touches upon the work of Rod Stewart, David Bowie, and Donovan with the first song from this sampling of tracks. Summer Soldier (Holler If Ya Hear Me) is able to shine with introspective arrangements that bubble into something engrossing and melodies that will bury themselves deep into the minds and hearts of listeners. Sam Cooke’s On The Radio brings a little more R&B and soul into the mix, with a laid-back soul groove immediately pleasing listeners’ ears. The inimitable vocals laid down by Francke are the cherry on the top of the sundae. A robust base line and sizzling horn work to make this something special.

Stewart Francke S/T Review

Two Guitars Bass and Drums feels like a long-lost Beatles track, with all of the majesty and pomp dovetailing into a vocal-heavy effort. The sheer set of influences that listeners will be able to discern during this composition is substantial, with bits of ELO, U2, the Bee Gees, and Seals and Crofts waved together into a cogent narrative. The heavy drums that open up Heart of a Heartless World resound loudly through the composition, drawing listeners’ attention firmly to this composition. The dual duty that Francke’s vocals pull here is amazing; more than just being the narrative aspect of the composition, Stewart’s voice add considerably to the overall harmonies achieved during this song. This EP concludes with a live version of Upon Seeing Simone, showcasing a wholly different side to the performer. All the glitz and glamour of seventies Vegas is created with brilliant splendor, sending listeners off on a tremendously positive note; a set of backing instrumentation here means that this song will resound loudly with listeners long after the album has ceased to play.

Top Tracks: Two Guitars Bass and Drums

Rating: 8.7/10

Stewart Francke S/T Review / 2016 Self / 8 Tracks / http://stewartfrancke.com/ / https://www.facebook.com/stewartfrancke / https://twitter.com/sfrancke

 

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