Neal Francis Returns With “Return To Zero”: Inside the Analog Fever Dream Behind Chicago’s Fastest-Rising Rock Visionary

Neal Francis unleashes his most ambitious album yet with Return To Zero—a wild, analog-fueled fusion of rock, funk, psych, and ’70s dance-floor energy. After nearly 400 shows around the world and a massive run including Jimmy Kimmel Live, Japan, Australia, and the UK/EU, Francis is stepping into a new era.

This deep-dive explores the making of Return To Zero, including collaborations with Michael Shuman (Queens of the Stone Age), Eric Krasno, Say She She, Blake Rhein, and more. We break down the album’s analog recording process, the inspiration behind key tracks like “Need You Again,” “Broken Glass,” and “Back It Up,” and the story behind his biggest headlining show ever at Chicago’s Salt Shed — Francis Comes Again.

Perfect for fans of retro-inspired rock, funk, analog production, Chicago music, and artists like Thin Lizzy, ELO, Allen Toussaint, Black Pumas, and My Morning Jacket.

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