Francis Kim: Where You Belong
Kendall Cafe, Sunday, July 21, 2002

A simple question was asked when I went to meet Francis Kim, the band, and company on Saturday at a Malaysian restaurant somewhere near Newbury Street for dinner.

"How do you all know each other?"

And a simple reply was given.

"His music."

It was the common ground for the nine of us there that evening – his music had brought us all together. And at the chance of sounding a bit cliche, it would never have happened had it not been something we all believed in.

Over the course of the past two years, I've had the privilege of watching this young artist grow in skill, depth, and maturity as a musician, a writer, and a performer. Since following his humble beginnings as a singer-songwriter, I've witnessed his increased exposure in the esteemed music world, seen the number of his loyal fans and listeners grow by the day, and watched his jump from quaint performances in small coffeehouses/cafes to a packed gig in one of Boston's best known music venues. All the while, never losing his head or his humility.

His songs – catchy, clever, and honest – have taken on a new depth and life with the addition of drummer, Robin Lai, and bassist, Chris Shelton. Both are gifted musicians from the renown Berklee College of Music. Watching the three interact over the course of the weekend, it was obvious there is a sense of comradeship and playfulness among the band members. But most importantly, there's chemistry. Though a good majority of time was spent exchanging playful, sarcastic remarks between the three, one could easily tell these musicians have an extraordinary respect for one another's talents and appreciation for what each of them bring to the band.

On Sunday night at the Kendall Cafe (where artists such as Five for Fighting, Jewel, and Elvis Costello have all performed), Francis Kim started the show off with fellow singer-songwriter Annie Lin to follow. Kim and band played a few numbers from his debut acoustical album, Industrial Canvas. Released in March of 2000, the entire album was a solo project recorded incredibly enough in the confines of his bedroom. Now spending most of his recording sessions in the studios, his songs since then have become quirkier, more upbeat, and more musically refined while still retaining its tenderness and honesty. The addition of the band has added a depth, richness, flavor and liveliness to Kim's already well-crafted songs.

His set consisted of old, new, recharged, and revived songs written over the past few years. His oldie but goody, "Food is Comfort", blew away the crowd. "Five Foot Four" added perspective. “If You Push Me Hard Enough" left you wanting more. His songs "Polish" (which the band had playfully renamed "POH-lish") and "She is My Woman", both songs sarcastic in nature, were entertaining pieces that the crowd responded well to. They revealed a more lighthearted and witty Francis Kim while songs like "Talking to Me" and his new piece, "By the Hand", still revealed the tender, thoughtful, bittersweet, and candid expression I've come to know this artist for.

Watching the band perform on stage, there’s an unpretentiousness to their demeanor and more than anything else, this is fun for them. Not work, but fun. A time to jam and have a good time – albeit the exuberant applause and enjoyment of a delighted audience to accompany them.

Though the band's stage presence may have lacked a bit of the extravagance and flashiness associated with most rock bands (which ultimately adds to this band's down-to-earth feel), the ambiance was nothing short of enriching for their first live performance here on the east coast. And as the group continues to play more shows, eventually touring (which is what I foresee in their future), I'm positive they'll blow away any crowd and leave the audience craving for more.

But don't take my word for it. Keep your eyes peeled and watch for them when they make it out to your friendly neighborhood. You'll find out firsthand what I've discovered over the past two years: Francis Kim's music is not only captivating, but it brings people together. For good music. Good times. And good memories.

See you there.

Copyright © 2002 Rachel Young