What makes Tiger in the Rain by Michael Franks notable?

This album is notable for its smooth blending of genres and received positive reviews from critics, which helped further establish Franks' reputation as a distinctive voice in the pop and jazz fusion scene. The track 'Satisfaction Guaranteed' reached significant airplay, contributing to Franks’ growing popularity during the late 1970s. Released in 1979, 'Tiger in the Rain' was Michael Franks' fourth studio album, following his breakthrough with 'The Art of Tea'. At this point in his career, Franks was solidifying his unique sound characterized by sophisticated lyrics and smooth melodies, appealing to both adult contemporary audiences and jazz enthusiasts.

Who is Tiger in the Rain for?

Tiger in the Rain works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, introspective lyrics for quiet evenings and lush arrangements for relaxed listening.

How many songs are on Tiger in the Rain?

Tiger in the Rain has 9 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Tiger in the Rain

Michael Franks · 1979

40 min · 9 tracks · pop music

A blend of jazz-inflected pop and soft rock that evokes a mellow, sun-soaked ambiance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sanpaku — The opening track sets the tone with its rich harmonies and intricate lyrical imagery, showcasing Franks' signature blend of poetic storytelling and melodic sophistication.
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Tiger in the Rain — The title track encapsulates the themes of longing and introspection present throughout the album, featuring lush instrumentation and evocative lyrics that draw listeners into a vivid emotional landscape.
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Satisfaction Guaranteed — This track stands out for its catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm, representing Franks' ability to fuse pop sensibilities with jazz influences while maintaining thoughtful lyricism.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends jazz and pop effectively, showcasing strong arrangements and reflective lyrics.

What we noticed

The album opens with a soft, jazzy track that introduces a laid-back vibe, which is maintained through the first half of the record.
Several tracks feature intricate arrangements with layered instrumentation, particularly in the use of horns and strings that enhance the mellow atmosphere.
The lyrics are often conversational and reflective, with a focus on personal themes and storytelling that invites listener engagement.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
introspective lyrics for quiet evenings
lush arrangements for relaxed listening
smooth melodies during afternoon breaks

Maybe skip if you

seek instant gratification tracks
prefer high-energy party music

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1979, 'Tiger in the Rain' was Michael Franks' fourth studio album, following his breakthrough with 'The Art of Tea'. At this point in his career, Franks was solidifying his unique sound characterized by sophisticated lyrics and smooth melodies, appealing to both adult contemporary audiences and jazz enthusiasts.
Stylistic neighbors: Kenny Loggins· James Taylor· Paul Simon