Rendezvous in Rio by Michael Franks (CD, Jun-2006, Koch Records USA)

Michael has made one of his most seminal works on his latest cd, RIR. While his exotic lyrics shine on the strong opener 'Under the Sun', reminiscent of up tempo songs on Blue Pacific, he mixes it up on 'Samba do Sonho' conveying a sensual yet sassy sound with Brazilian rhythms. He transcends his lyrical heights in response to the existential love-themed question in 'The answer is why'. Michael has a more refined sound in the latter song with melodic verses punctuated by syncopated harmony. Michael injects new life into his jazz repertoire scatting away "with all the cats" in 'Scatsville'. The most highly anticipated songs of Franks are his signature love songs, smooth and passionate expression as in 'The Chemistry of Love'. His mellow yet sophisticated sparkler 'Songbirds' ends this release showing Michael in quiet reflection at his artistic apex. Combined with veteran players, particularly Eric Marienthal on sax and Chuck Loeb on guitar, Yellowjackets' Jimmy Haslip injects a honeyed-sting of a production. Michael's latest installment of songs provides a warm and welcoming cd worthy of many return rendevous!