While it certainly doesn't include all his recorded output in other groups, Neal Frances' solo career provides a fascinating look at an artist expanding his horizons and incorporating all of his musical interests. His 2019 debut Changes was a solid introduction to Frances' more conventional approach to fun. 2021's In Plain Sight saw Frances teaming with producer Dave Fridmann to graft more experimental pop approaches to his grooves. And with his third album Return To Zero, out today, Frances continues to bring in more rock and pop elements into his repertoire. The result is his most engaging LP to date.
Return To Zero sounds like it was recorded in the mid-'70s, but fueled by future radio transmissions allowing the full history of music to be funneled through Frances' own lens. The opening "Need You Again" sets up a sharp groove that immediately locks you in for the duration. If you make it 30 seconds into the opener, you ain't getting out, because you won't wanna. From there he takes you through a string-drenched disco skate number "Don't Wait" that folds into the sexy, slinky, couples-skate groove of the playful "Back It Up." And then your suddenly launched into the parking lot, into a convertible, and onto a seaside drive to the Laurel Canyon-esque rock of "What's Let Of Me."
And those are just the opening four songs. The entire LP takes you on a true journey through multiple eras condensed into single, brilliant songs unafraid to change course while keeping the integrity of the album intact. Frances has packed the thing with potential singles, but this is truly a work meant to be enjoyed from start to finish.
And to older fans who have been following Frances because they are really into the funk and/or jam band scene, have no fear. Return To Zero is packed with concise should-be hits, but there is plenty of space in each song to expand into a long, sweaty, live workout.
You'll get a chance to get a workout to these tunes if you pick up the album today, and if you want to sweat in person, Frances and his band are currently touring behind Return To Zero and will surely hit a town near you soon. (If you're in Chicago, he's playing Weiner's Circle tonight, and Reckless Records on Sunday.)
Don't sleep on this. We need things to lift our spirits these days, and the groovy pop and imminent dance-athons Return To Zero triggers will be a welcome, and dare I say essential, respite.