Independent out musician Steven Franz returns to the scene with Skins & Shirts, a collection of nine smart and sexy songs exploring the black, white, and gray aspects of love and life. This is Franz’s second release, following the success of his 2003 debut, The One You Choose, which featured award-nominated tracks “Double My Wardrobe” and “Out Into the Distance.” 

Skins & Shirts explores the “angel and devil sitting on your shoulders.” Each of the nine tracks showcases Franz’s versatility as a writer and performer shifting from the seductive (“Skins & Shirts”), to spiritual (“Some Place Better” and “Song In Silence”), to political (“When Is It My Turn” and “I Do”). He also sets the lyrical poems of Robert Frost (“Into My Own” and “The Road Not Taken”) to music to complement the themes of his original songs.

Produced by award-winning singer-songwriter, Hans York, the album features many of Seattle’s A-list studio musicians, as well as York’s own talents on a variety of guitars and vocals. Limited touring is being scheduled for the Pacific Northwest. Skins & Shirts is available through iTunes and CD Baby. 

“Steven Franz has found a unique niche for his song stylings, combining mellow guitar, piano accompaniment and emotive singing with clever social commentary for songs from a gay perspective.” – The Miami Herald