Li(f)e is the new album by celebrated agent-provocateur of hip hop, Sage Francis. An underground star from his years as a battle champion, poet and founder of influential Strange Famous Records. This album is a marked evolution for Francis. His signature wordplay, a dazzling mix of sardonic humor and biting social commentary, is now complimented by a talented band consisting of producer Brian Deck (Modest Mouse, Iron and Wine) and cohorts Jim Becker and Tim Rutili of the acclaimed Chicago outfit Califone. It proves an effective soundtrack for Francis' riveting lyrical discourse. The record's title Li(f)e is a deliberate amalgamation of the words life and lie. The album begins with a stirring Steinbeck imbued tale of prison break entitled Little Houdini' with music written by ex Grandaddy frontman turned solo artist Jason Lytle. The rousing and energetic anthem entitled "Three Sheets" was co-written by Chris Walla of the band Death Cab for Cutie. Subsequent songs feature compositions by Tim Fite, members of Calexico, DeVotchKa, and Mark Linkous of Sparklehorse - each interpreted by Francis and the band resulting in an entirely organic and captivating vehicle for Francis' dramatic narratives.

Track Listing

Disc 1:

1. Little Houdini
2. Three Sheets to the Wind
3. I Was Zero
4. Slow Man
5. Diamonds and Pearls
6. Polterzeitgeist
7. The Baby Stays
8. 16 Years
9. Worry Not
10. London Bridge
11. Love the Lie
12. The Best of Times