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Fran Smith Jr. and The Ten Cent Millionaires - Man Meets Machine (Independently released CD, Pop)
Fran Smith Jr. has music in his blood. Best known as the bass player in The Hooters and for playing the role of Paul McCartney in Beatlemania. Fran is clearly a lover of pure pop music. His tunes recall artists like Neil Innes, Badfinger, Mitch Easter, and The Beatles. Considering the quality of the tunes on Man Meets Machine...one can't help but wonder why Smith's solo career has not overshadowed his bass playing stint with The Hooters. While his solo recordings are side projects, they sound like anything but. Fran writes clear, catchy, upbeat pop tunes that are easy on the ears and stick in the mind like glue. Not surprisingly, the sound quality is superb throughout...and the vocals are brilliant. Top notch cuts include "Man Meets Machine," "Leonardo," "Shut Down Land," "Nothing In Return," and "Demented Supermarket." Fifteen great tunes. (Rating: 5+)