“A mix of raw soul, honest country heart and undeniable British resolve” - Holler Country
“This whole album should be declared an area of outstanding natural beauty.” - Louder Than War
Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jack Francis’ heartfelt songs are rooted in the finest musical traditions of America, whilst staying true to his own British and Irish heritage. His unique voice and perspective lend authority to lyrics exploring the complicated terrain of life with passion and poetic precision.
Jacks musical journey started at 15 years old, honing his craft performing music in pubs, clubs and venues. After more than 10 years of experience of touring around the UK, a stint writing Pop songs for a publishing house followed. This become the catalyst for Francis to focus his attention on recording and releasing his own music the way he wanted it to be heard.
During a break between the Covid-19 lockdowns of 2020, his self-titled debut album started production with the help of old friends Ferris & Sylvester at their home studio in Wiltshire.
Upon its release, the songs from his debut were championed by the likes of Janice Long, Tom Robinson, Ricky Ross and Iain Anderson all across the BBC. A string of tour supports, as well as festival appearances in the UK and Europe followed in the summer of 2022, before beginning work on the follow-up album in September of the same year.
Francis’ second record, entitled ‘Early Retirement’ is due for release in the Spring of 2024. A personal collection of songs demonstrating a more diverse sonic palette, as well as his acerbic wit, ‘Early Retirement’ compounds Jacks experiences navigating modern society and the music industry.
Earlier this year the band released their sophomore EP, ‘I Don’t Like My Chances On The Outside’ via Dalliance Recordings (Francis of Delirium, Gia Margaret, HighSchool). Across the five tracks, lilo present a sparkling cycle of acoustic-leaning hymnals with ethereal lyrical and sonic content, exploring the panic, anxiety and love of twenty-somethings. The EP brought acclaim from the likes of i-D, The Times, Clash, and Loud & Quiet as well as editorial support from Spotify (Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds: Indie, Lorem) and spins on BBC 6 Music.
It’s a sound that calls to mind the ethereality of Laura Marling, but that is only the first glimpse of the versatility of lilo’s sound, with their new material set to break new ground in the UK indie-folk landscape. New single ‘Back On My Feet’ delivers on their promise of a more full-bodied, band-driven direction.
