Francis Dunnery Albums (8)
'The Gulley Flats Boys'
Release Date 8/16/2005
Tracks 15
Label Orchard
See Album Tracklist and Review
'Hometown 2001: Live'
Release Date 1/1/2001
Tracks 15
Label Aquarian Nation
See Album Tracklist and Review
'Welcome to the Wild Country'
Release Date 1/1/2001
Tracks 13
Label United States Dist
See Album Tracklist and Review
'Let's Go Do What Happens'
Release Date 4/28/1998
Tracks 12
Label Razor & Tie
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What The Critics Say
Francis Dunnery's third album, Lets Go Do What Happens, is his most ambitious and successful record to date. Moving to a smaller label and building his own studio has allowed Dunnery to follow his instincts, and the result is a mature, well-crafted collection of adult alternative pop songs distinguished by his melodic flair. There may be more going on sonically than ever before, but Dunnery never lets the sounds get in the way of the songs, which are up to his high standards. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
'Tall Blonde Helicopter'
Release Date 1/1/1995
Tracks 15
Label Atlantic
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What The Critics Say
In the liner notes of Tall Blonde Helicopter, Francis Dunnery writes that the record was made with a wink and a smile. That mischievous spirit certainly shines through most of the 15 songs that comprise this 1995 release, particularly "Too Much Saturn," a humorous tale of the effects of the new age, and "The Johnny Podell Song," which was titled for his booking agent. Even so, Dunnery does not shun his sentimental side and turns in some real gems ranging stylistically from all-out rockers to acoustic pop. The happily upbeat "Sunshine" is an adoring honey of a song that any sweetheart would be pleased to receive. On the other end of the telescope is the beautiful melancholy of "Only New York Going On," a cry of loneliness and longing from the big city for a love who's elsewhere. Not only does Dunnery write all of the songs, save for the Cat Stevens penned "Father and Son," but he also plays the bulk of the instruments, though Jill Sobule lends her distinctive voice in support of "Rain or Shine," the supposed story of Dunnery's life. Although it's a strong, enjoyable album, Tall Blonde Helicopter never quite finds its groove and, therefore, feels the tiniest bit choppy. Nevertheless, if you like singer/songwriters who float somewhere outside the box, Dunnery should be in your collection. ~ Kelly McCartney, All Music Guide
'One Night in Sauchihall Street'
Release Date 1/1/1995
Tracks 10
Label Cottage Industry
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
Making his debut on Atlantic Records, Francis Dunnery hits with a bag of soulful pop/rock songs that is nicely entertaining. He's the singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, so Fearless is Dunnery through and through. He even boasts that "this record was made in an A&R free zone." That's quite an admirable accomplishment for a newcomer, but that's just the kind of upstart he is. Fearless kicks off with two grooving tunes, "American Life in the Summertime" and "Homegrown," that are ready-made to sing along with. The first is an interesting observational piece on America as seen through the eyes of an Englishman; the second, you may recognize from sparse radio airplay. Mixing up the styles a bit, "Fade Away" flows with an almost reggae feel; "Climbing Up the Love Tree" leans heavy on the drums, piano flourishes, and understated bassline; and "Couldn't Find a Reason" somehow successfully combines harmonica and tabla with soft harmonies. Sometimes brash, sometimes tender, Dunnery is a clever lyricist so the end result is generally pleasing. His best work is probably yet to come, but Fearless is certainly a fine start. ~ Kelly McCartney, All Music Guide
