Michael Franks - The Best of Michael Franks-A Backward Glance (1998) CD Rip

*The Best of Michael Franks – A Backward Glance* is a refined retrospective that highlights the most elegant and enduring moments from Michael Franks’ celebrated career. Released in 1998, this compilation captures his signature blend of smooth jazz sophistication, poetic lyricism, and relaxed vocal delivery. Franks’ distinctive whisper-like voice and clever storytelling style are supported by some of the finest session musicians in jazz and pop fusion history, giving the collection a consistently polished and luxurious sound. From breezy classics like “Popsicle Toes” to the romantic warmth of “Antonio’s Song (The Rainbow)” and the laid-back groove of “Island Life,” the album showcases his ability to merge jazz harmony with accessible songwriting. The arrangements feature lush Rhodes textures, tasteful guitar work, and subtle horn lines, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and stylish. This compilation serves as an excellent entry point into Franks’ catalog and a smooth, cohesive listening experience for longtime fans.

Tracklist:
1. Popsicle Toes
2. Eggplant
3. Lady Wants To Know, The
4. Antonio's Song (The Rainbow)
5. When The Cookie Jar Is Empty
6. Tiger In The Rain
7. Baseball
8. Love Duet
9. When Sly Calls (Don't Touch That Phone)
10. Your Secret's Safe With Me
11. When I Give My Love To You
12. Island Life
13. Art Of Love, The
14. Soul Mate
15. Hourglass

Personnel:
Michael Franks - vocals, acoustic guitar
Larry Carlton, John Tropea, Bucky Pizzarelli, David Spinozza, Hugh McCracken, Jeff Mironov - guitar
Seldon Powell - soprano saxophone
David Sanborn - alto saxophone
Michael Brecker - tenor saxophone
Randy Brecker - flugelhorn
Joe Sample - piano, Fender Rhodes piano
Kenny Barron - piano
Rob Mounsey - Fender Rhodes piano, keyboards, programming
Leon Pendarvis, Don Grolnick - keyboards
Larry Bunker, Mike Mainieri - vibraphone
Wilton Felder, Will Lee, Ron Carter, Neil Jason, Francisco Centeno - bass
John Guerin - drums, percussion
Steve Gadd, Ben Riley, Rick Marrotta - drums
Victor Feldman, Sue Evans, Luis Conte - percussion