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Frankie and the Family Band / Press

“Often compared to Nancy Wilson and Dinah Washington, her tonal quality is more reminiscent of Sarah Vaughan - with the relaxed quality of a diva.”

Joann Cheatham - Pure Jazz Magazine

“Miss Francis is totally at home in this context, while Daydream, in complete contrast, with its quality lyrics, emphasizes her control at ultra-slow tempo, indisputably proving this lady is a name to watch."”

Brian Davis - Jazz Journal

"Little Sunflower will serve to further spread the word about this immensely gifted young lady, who is progressing by leaps and bounds, yet has her feed planted firmly on the ground."

The Blackwell Guide to Recorded Jazz

"A young American singer with enormous charm and potential. If Francis never gets any better than this, she will go far. I suspect that she will move on and up."

Jazz Journal

"...many of these singers are well worth seeking out, either in person, on record: Tony Bennett, Carmen Bradford, Jay Clayton, Ethel Ennis, Karen Francis, Aretha Franklin, Astrud Gilberto...

Bruce Crowther and Mike Pinfold - Singing Jazz: The Singers and their Styles

"The ballads radiate a sincerity and soulfulness that stem from Francis' unaffected interpretations."

The Washington Post

"If you've never heard of singer Karen Francis, you owe it to yourself to get acquainted with her and consider this recording (Where Is Love? ) your engraved invitation. Her ballads tug at you as she sings with a genuine passion, and her cookers lighten your load and make you smile." You want effortless delivery? Then listen to the opening "I Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out to Dry," a tune that Karen nails, singing it with a sense of despair but with a glimmer of hope that tomorrow will be a better day."

Jazz Quarterly

"The relaxed, conversational intimacy of her style is delivered with innate confidence. She confronts the challenge of slow ballad standards with tact and rare taste. Francis hints at limitless potential; the intimate timbre of her voice is matched by a sophisticated, low-key approach that indicates she understands the drama of restraint."

Cadence Magazine

“ Karen Francis is a force of nature. She blows in like a gale-force wind on "Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise," and barely slows down as she powerfully redefines jazz vocals with standards and originals.....Better Days is one of the best vocal jazz albums released this year. Let us hope there are many more to come.”

C. Michael Bailey - All About Jazz