Michael Franks
The Art Of Tea

THE REVIEW

Recorded live in the studio over three days between May and June of 1975, "The Art Of Tea" is perhaps the most beautiful album by Michael Franks.

Michael's voice is magical and soothing, and in the nine tracks of the album, it crafts soft jazz melodies that resemble guitar phrases. Difficult to describe... let's do this, I won't even try, and so, instead of the usual technical considerations, let's say: You are sitting on a teak deck chair by the sea, in a patio under palm trees, preferably in California, but any beach in the world will do. You have a cocktail in hand while a light breeze sneaks under your Hawaiian-style shirt, giving you a bit of coolness. You're on vacation, and you will be forever, let's say maybe you've won the New Year's lottery. And here... if there's music in the air... if the bartender puts on a CD... well... it might really be "The Art Of Tea" by Michael Franks. Now, from behind your Ray-Bans, you're looking at the horizon, a warm humidity envelops you, and you think back to when you worked for a thousand euros a month, you smile, order another glass, and then close your eyes. The album slips gently and keeps you company. You feel like you're in a movie, but it's all real. Michael's music is the ideal soundtrack for those who are fulfilled with life, for those who want to dream, and for those pleasantly relaxed. However, it might be irritating for those who are perpetually in a hurry, who are burdened with duties and work to complete, and who are naturally anxious.

Absolutely a must-have in a collection of records that wants to be considered as such.