Aaron Frazer (of Durand Jones & The Indications) releases his debut album, Introducing... via Dead Oceans and Easy Eye Sound. A testament to his wide-ranging influence and deep gratitude for his musical community, Introducing... is both loving and gracious, critical without losing hope, and a showcase of a young artist on a seriously soulful ascent. Working with producer Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, Frazer expertly calibrates consciousness-raising, as previewed by early single "Bad News," and the desire to be enveloped by love. Where previous songs were written in a partial state of turmoil, Frazer's debut LP shows maturation and range.
The 12 songs on Introducing... combine ‘70s soul with Auerbach's particular sensibilities, and include songs with a message in the key of Gil Scott-Heron, as well as uplifting tales of love told through a blend of disco, gospel, and doo-wop. The album was recorded in a week at Auerbach's antique and ephemera-laden studio in Nashville following a rapid and prolific songwriting session. Fellow single "Over You" is telling of the collaboration between Frazer and Auerbach. "‘Over You' is inspired by the legendary northern soul 45s that electrified dance floors across the UK in the 1960s," says Aaron. "Breakneck speeds and breakbeat drums challenged even the best dancers to pull out all the stops. Lyrically, ‘Over You' captures a moment of despair in the darkest hour of a breakup. But sometimes to feel better, you just gotta shake your ass."
For Introducing..., Auerbach called on a crew of heavy session players – including members of the Memphis Boys (who played on Dusty Springfield's "Son of A Preacher Man" and Aretha Franklin's "You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman"), symphony percussionist Sam Bacco, and several members of the Daptone-Big Crown Records universe. "I really didn't want to make a retro record with Aaron; I wanted it to be its own thing, have its own sound. The crew had not made records together before, so it was a very fresh feeling that I think will strike a chord with people. There's this amazing cross-section of musicians, young and old, with Aaron leading the way." With a collaborative vision, Introducing... manages to hit the sweet spot between intuition, intentionality, and craft – a love song that's both personal and universal.
- You Don't Want To Be My Baby
- If I Got It (Your Love Brought It)
- Can't Leave It Alone
- Bad News
- Have Mercy
- Done Lyin'
- Lover Girl
- Ride with Me
- Girl on the Phone
- Love Is
- Over You
- Leanin' on Your Everlasting Love