Sage Francis has always provided us with a dark, heavy, hip-hop sound and his deep detailed lyrics. His new album seems to turn the page slightly. While keeping his lyrics high quality, he manages to rhyme over solid acoustic guitar riffs that sometimes have a folk/bluegrass feel to them. A completely different sound that Francis fans aren't completely use to, but I assure it won't take long. The style is different but works to make a solid album. 'Li(f)e' was produced by major indie producer Brian Deck, who has worked with the likes of Modest Mouse and Iron and Wine. The album is backed by guitarists from such bands as Death Cab for Cutie, Califone, and Grandaddy. The combo of the guitar work and Sage's poetry makes for high caliber hip-hop and creates a new side of Sage that will have you wanting more.
