A New England native, Francis first came to fame in the late 1990s as a founding member of alternative roots powerhouse Dispatch, whose remarkable rise from Middlebury College to Madison Square Garden helped rewrite the rulebooks for modern indie bands.  It was the sheer joy of the band’s legendary early performances that helped the band’s fan base swell online.  That joy has been recaptured on Pete Francis’ newest solo venture, the self titled Pete Francis EP.

 Growing up in Riverside, Connecticut, a young Pete Francis found an album that would shape his music for years to come: Paul Simon!s "Graceland." He was just eleven, but the rhythmic energy and peaceful vocals of Ladysmith Black Mambazo struck a chord in him. It was a sound that felt both new and comforting, inspiring Pete to explore African rhythms and melodies in his own music.

Fast forward to his latest EP, and the influence of "Graceland" is clear. While working on new songs, Pete shared an acoustic version of "Baby I Was Wrong” with top
producer Dan Edinberg, who!s worked with Sting and Shirazee. Edinberg saw the potential to give the track a "Graceland"-inspired sound, blending the style Pete had loved since childhood with his own music. This collaboration set the tone for the entire EP, making it a unique blend of classic influence and Pete!s own creativity.

The EP was co-produced by Pete himself and Grammy-winning Scott Jacoby (famed for his work with Coldplay, Vampire Weekend, and Sia), bringing a polished and dynamic feel to the project. Their combined vision helped shape the songs into a cohesive listening experience, bridging the old-school inspiration with a modern touch.

The EP reflects a time of personal reflection for Pete. Some songs are uplifting, like "Just Believe,” which offers hope and love, while others, like "How Heavy,” create a darker, movie-like vibe. By naming the EP after himself, Pete invites listeners to step into a space that!s as personal as it is peaceful. This EP isn!t just music—it!s a journey into Pete Francis!s mind and heart, filled with warmth, honesty, and a touch of nostalgia.

Photo Credit: Marcus Maddox