Tracks
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This is California-based Michael Franks' fantastic 1975 debut on Warner Brothers Records. This is actually his 2nd LP; following an 'uneven' debut LP on Brute Records. On "The Art Of Tea", Michael has the blessing of having veteran producer Tommy DiPuma (George Benson, Everything But The Girl, Al Jarreau, Stuff, Eumir Deodato, Bill Evans, Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Gilberto, etc) making a superb record that put Michael on the vocal jazz map.
"I Don't Know Why I'm So Happy I'm Sad" in my opinion is the standout track here. The late Crusaders' keyboardist Joe Sample shines brilliantly on this track with sweeping piano over jazz guitarist Larry Carlton's incredible comping. "Eggplant" and "Popsicle Toes" are excellent songs with sexually lyrical innuendos; making a perfect match over the jazzy rhythms. "Mr. Blue" also is another key track here; very sultry & sad.
All and all, "The Art Of Tea" is a perfect taste of what was to come for the career of Michael Franks as a true pioneer in the 'smooth jazz' boom of the 80's and '90's. If you like Brazilian music, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald or Grover Washington Jr, you'll love this record! Buy it!
"I Don't Know Why I'm So Happy I'm Sad" in my opinion is the standout track here. The late Crusaders' keyboardist Joe Sample shines brilliantly on this track with sweeping piano over jazz guitarist Larry Carlton's incredible comping. "Eggplant" and "Popsicle Toes" are excellent songs with sexually lyrical innuendos; making a perfect match over the jazzy rhythms. "Mr. Blue" also is another key track here; very sultry & sad.
All and all, "The Art Of Tea" is a perfect taste of what was to come for the career of Michael Franks as a true pioneer in the 'smooth jazz' boom of the 80's and '90's. If you like Brazilian music, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald or Grover Washington Jr, you'll love this record! Buy it!