You still may not have heard about Francis Farewell Starlite, frontman of the vintage synth-pop group Francis and the Lights but like I said last time, you can be damn sure that the rest of the music industry has.

UCLA students were introduced to the man in the Ray Bans and black trench back in May as the group opened for Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros in Royce Hall. However, no, Edward Sharpe is not the only high profile group the guys have opened up for. Already in 2010, Francis has worked with hip-hop breakout artist of the year, Drake and this time Francis is coming through town in support of the indie experimental gods MGMT.

It may seem weird to have a hip-hop, indie folk and experimental group fighting for you, but Francis really does sound like a funky mashup of so many different genres at times. Two CDs deep, they have already created a very polished sound with influences ranging across all genres – from James Brown soul to 80’s vintage Peter Gabriel to the jazz-fusions of Steely Dan, and even a hint of modern day party starters Ghostland Observatory. The music blends so perfectly though, creating a genuinely fun sound. And I haven’t even mentioned, Francis has got killer dance moves and plays a mean tambourine. He truly was born to entertain. And the funniest part, this guy looks kinda like Kramer, straight out of Seinfeld. They put on one of the most entertaining shows to watch in the world of music. I mean, their name is Francis and the LIGHTS. Trust me, I was first row at their last LA gig at the Echo in May. They are not just any opener.

While most openers simply go through the motions, Francis and the Lights get the audience to nearly forget about the main act for the 45 minutes that they get to grace the stage. I’m telling you Francis is worth going to see. They leave the audience wanting more, and feeling like you got your ticket’s worth all before the main act even steps on the stage. I can guarantee it’s going to be the same way at the Los Angeles Greek Theatre next Friday, July 16^th.

Francis and the Lights open for MGMT who are rounding up their Congratulations tour this summer. Tickets are only $35. Helios Creed also opens. Head to http://www.greektheatrela.com/events/event_details.asp?id=1834 for more details.

Get yourself to the Greek.