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12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Welcome Return, November 16, 2002
Michael released "Dragonfly Summer after a three year hiatus. What a wonderful return. The opener "Coming To Life" is an upbeat tune where Michael seems like he's singing about the start of this album itself. All of the songs are winners, I sometimes wonder what the outtakes are like, given the overall quality of the songs here. "Soul Mate" not only turned me on to Jeff Lorber, but also introduced me to Eric Benet, he's singing the harmony vocal. Not only is Michael talented, but the people he surrounds himself with, wow! The title track is fun, "Monk's New Tune" is about as late night jazz as Michael gets. "I Love Lucy" is that "I Love Lucy," the only cover Michael has recorded, save for a couple Christmas songs. The song is transformed from a Cuban lounge style to a romantic Brazilian influenced love song, the orchestration is glorious. "Practice Makes Perfect" is fun, "String Of Pearls" is a beautiful song, moving at a nice tempo featuring accoustic guitar and a woodwind solo. "Keeping My Eye On You" is a duet with Dan Hicks, it tells a story about two friends who are a bit wary of each other, they want the same girl. " The Dream" is a huge production number produced by the Yellowjackets. Michael would later record this song live, with Brenda Russell and Marilyn Scott handling background duty. "You Were Meant For Me" is a duet with Michael's muse, Peggy Lee, whose voice is tragically gone. This song is so gentle, it caresses what's left of Peggy's voice and Michael restrains himself, the end result is sweet. "How I Remember You" is a Michael formula jazz song, a great way to close this richly arranged and totally enjoyble album.
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Up there with the best, August 15, 2000
I rate "Dragonfly Summer" up there with the best from the truly unique artist, Michael Franks. As a long standing listener of this quite different artist, I had lapsed in my support, due somewhat to the non-existent airplay received in Australia. So, via the internet,I was able to sample songs from more recent (5 years) CDs. Favourite songs on this CD are "String of Pearls", "How I remember You", and the title track. There aren't too many artists that can transport your mind and heart to wherever you want to go, but as you take that walk, flight,or drive along some sandy coastline, you could do no better than to be listening to "Dragonly Summer" as you go.
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
BRILLIANT ALBUM TO START WITH !, December 30, 2003
I discovered that album one day in a store and was hooked right away. I used to have older albums by Franks, which I loved, but this was incredible because Franks had managed so brilliantly to adapt to a more modern sound.This remained my favorite Michael Franks album until 'Abandoned Garden' came out. I'd say it's the perfect album to get started on his music, as it displays a variety of uptempo and slow songs, jazz numbers and pop tunes, funny and nostalgic lyrics. There's something for everyone in this album, but the genius of Michael Franks is to make it all sound like a coherent piece of work. Great album which will provide hours upon hours of exciting listening.
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