Following the release of his debut solo album So They Say, the ever-evolving Pete Francis (best know for his time spent with the band Dispatch) kicked off his initial solo tour, stopping in Philadelphia on September 29, where he played at the TLA to an eager audience.
Before the show, Francis could be seen talking to fans, seeming just as excited to be in Philly as his fans were to hear him play. Then the lights went out and Francis took the stage with a smile, illuminating the audience with tracks from his new album. The kids pressed close to the stage, waiting to hear the new side of an artist so commonly associated with Dispatch.
And despite his ties to Dispatch and inexperience as a solo artist, Francis proved himself just as capable of performing on his own as with his regular bandmates. For this solo project, Francis enlisted the aid of fellow artists Marty Ballou, Paul Tillotson and Marty Richards on both the album and the stage. They provided just the right hint of jazz, their presence and styles complimenting Francis' perfectly.
The energy from Francis exuded throughout the room as the crowd swayed to his melodies. The songs performed showed the wide range of genres and musical influences that Francis enjoys. Tracks like "Train Window" and "Father Rose" combine soulful lyrics with strong beats that, while vaguely reminiscent of Dispatch, demonstrate Francis' own style.
After releasing four studio recordings with Dispatch, this album marks a milestone for Francis. Through his live performance and the talent evident throughout the album, it becomes clear that, with the release of So They Say, Pete Francis has the strength to stand on his own.
