With a name like Francis Farewell Starlite, it’s almost a requirement that you possess some elevated artistic quality. In this regard Francis of Francis and the Lights doesn’t disappoint, boasting an impressive resume that includes producing “Thank Me Later” from Drake’s debut album, penning a song for the hip hop collective Das Racist, and touring with the likes of Ke$ha, La Roux, and MGMT. Unfortunately for us, Francis has remained under the radar since Francis and the Lights’ 2010 mini-album It’ll Get Better.
In May, however, the New York singer/songwriter broke his silence and emerged from his musical hibernation, gracing us with a fresh track entitled “ETC”. This groove weaves together a piano-heavy sound, Mr. Starlite’s floating falsetto, funky synth-pop beats, and a strong dose of ’90s R&B influence to fashion a floating, atmospheric track befitting of his moniker. Never has a song describing an uncertain relationship sounded so soothing. Minimalistic and ethereal, “ETC” reflects the ethos of Francis and the Lights, which Starlite told Out magazine is all about simplicity.