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Transporting you to lush, analog heaven, Jane Francis presents her debut solo CD, Skeletons for Tea. The 10-song collection weaves together Francis’s country spirit with southern pop, recalling influences such as Lucinda Williams, Joni Mitchell and Cat Power, yet retaining a sincere, authentic style that’s all her own.

Francis’s sharp lyrical approach is in full-form, brought to the forefront by stripped-down yet dead-on instrumentation (courtesy of Francis’s husband and musical partner Jay Manley [guitar and bass, organ, percussion and backing vocals], along with friends Jil Christensen on accordion and Mark Wells on backing vocals). The result is a fearless, immediate and affective assortment of tunes that range from upbeat and carefree (“Order to the Universe,” “Dream of Love”) to subtle and introspective (“Bluebird”, “Skeletons for Tea”).

Skeletons for Tea was recorded at Francis and Manley’s home in Saxapahaw, NC; a small town nestled between Chapel Hill and Greensboro. The rural setting no doubt served as a muse for Francis’s songwriting, which she describes as her “attempt at the exorcism of personal demons.”

A geology major and accomplished bass player, when Francis is not focusing on her solo work she can often be found holding down the low end and singing in the pop trio Velvet (which also includes hubby Jay). She also recently joined Shalini, a pop combo that features esteemed producer Mitch Easter.

“…subliminal references of folk-rock glory: R.E.M., Fairport Convention, latterday Byrds, early Jeff Buckley… Like that time-honored ritual, the annual pulling-out-of-the-family-photo-album, Skeletons For Tea feels familiar and intimate. Francis has clearly proved her songwriting mettle. The album’s a keeper from start to finish.” -Fred Mills