Michael Fracasso - A Pocketful Of Rain (CD)

All Music Guide

It's easy to raise expectations too high after reading all of the nice things critics have written about Michael Fracasso. On his fifth album, A Pocket Full of Rain, the singersongwriter, rocknroller, and poptune smith offers up a dozen songs in his clear, emotive tenor. He's joined by an impressive guest list including vocalists Patty Griffin and Eliza Gilkyson, and a revolving group of supporting musicians including bassist George Reiff and drummer Rob Sanchez. One of the strongest cuts is the opener, “All Or Nothing," a spare lament beautifully sung against the backdrop of acoustic guitar and a steady bass. Griffin's harmony here and elsewhere adds another layer to the mix, intertwining with Fracasso to create a moving blend of voices that perfectly underlines the emotion of the song. Other strong cuts include “Devil's Deal," with Griffin providing a bluesy undercurrent to Fracasso's high lead, and the title cut, a catchy bit of pop. The only small complaint is that the album notes ...and lyrics are difficult to read on A Pocketful of Rain, which, since singersongwriter lyrics are important, is a bit irritating. But Fracasso gets the musical portion of the program right, so all else will be forgiven. Fans and singersongwriter aficionados will want to pick up a copy. - Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., All Music Guide Read more Less