Heard, Not Seen is a committedly dark, emotional trip.

While Fran still inhabits the singer-songwriter idiom of acoustic guitar and well-articulated voice, the album's lush and scary treatments bring to mind the Beatles' Revoultion 9 and Pink Floyd. The effect is disquieting – presumably with intention, as Fran's subjects are similarly difficult to handle: September 11, current US government failings, the 1860s' slaughter of American Indians, a Book of Revelation nightmare.

And with an average track length over five and a half minutes, it is a relentless journey. Still Heard, Not Seen is often gripping and its meticulous production gives the listener a variety of compelling sonic landscapes.

Purchase Fran Reagan's Heard, Not Seen CD ($15.99 + $2.99 shipping) or buy the album or tracks as immediate mp3 downloads.

—Lawrence Strauss

"Choose Life" mp3 sample

"B-Leaguer" mp3 sample

"The Ultimate Lie" mp3 sample