AARON FRAZER Vinyl & CDs

Review: Colemine's latest transmigration of soul comes incarnated in rainbow-hued 45 form, culling two more slamming singles from Aaron Frazer's new and forthcoming LP, Into The Blue. Following the Brooklyn drummer and singer's earlier 2024 7"s 'Bad News/Done Lyin' and 'Bring You A Ring', we now consider ourselves further enriched by this contradictorily loose but tight soul-funk flabbergaster, which veers bassy and beatific, making stark and strident use of etheric vocals by singer Kiyamma Griffin.

Review: Aaron Frazer's limited-edition 45 showcases two dynamic tracks from his debut album. Side-1 has 'Bad News,' with its' punchy, drum-heavy groove paired with a powerful commentary on critical issues like climate change and racial injustice. This track, recorded in Nashville with the iconic Memphis Boysiknown for their work with Dusty Springfield and Aretha Franklinimerges classic soul with a modern edge. Flipping to Side-2, 'Done Lyin'' offers a glimpse into Frazer's emotional landscape. Dan Auerbach's commanding production provides a fitting backdrop for Frazer's poignant vocals, which convey a deep sense of both resilience and vulnerability. This black vinyl version is sure to impress soul enthusiasts with its blend of heartfelt expression and classic flair.

Review: Aaron Frazer's Into The Blue is a kaleidoscopic journey through the depths of emotion, blending soul, psychedelia, and hip-hop into a sonic odyssey. Frazer's falsetto soars over cinematic strings and breakbeats, painting a portrait of heartbreak and healing as he ventures from Brooklyn to Los Angeles. Tracks like the haunting title track and the explosive 'Payback' showcase Frazer's mastery of blending raw emotion with intricate production. With Grammy-winner Alex Goose as co-producer, Frazer delves into new sonic territories, incorporating iPhone recordings and samples from unexpected sources like 90s r&b group Hi-Five. The result is a bold and daring album that pushes boundaries while staying true to Frazer's unmistakable style. Into The Blue is not just a record; it's a testament to resilience and the power of music to uplift even in the darkest times.

Review: Aaron Frazer's Into The Blue is a daring fusion of soul, psychedelia, disco and hip-hop, reflecting the multi-instrumentalist's range and sonic exploration. Conceived amidst heartbreak and a cross-country move, the album delves into themes of grief, loneliness, and healing, while also celebrating love and new beginnings. Frazer's unmistakable falsetto and classic songwriting shine through, accompanied by live instruments and innovative production techniques. The title track, 'Into The Blue', sets a haunting tone with cinematic strings and breakbeats, while 'Payback' delivers an explosive dancefloor experience. Throughout the album, towering arrangements reminiscent of David Axelrod blend with rawness, incorporating iPhone recordings and one-take vocals. Co-produced by Grammy-winner Alex Goose, Into the Blue also features Frazer's experimentation with samples from unexpected sources. Despite its origins in heartbreak, Into the Blue offers listeners a sense of optimism, reminding them that amidst grief, there can still be moments of joy. Frazer's album showcases his growth as an artist, reaching new heights while exploring the depths of human emotion.

Review: Baltimore-born US songwriter Aaron Frazer's 'Bring You A Ring' has the sort of timeless quality to it that so much of the soul dropped on this label comes with. It is a superbly velvety sound that is both easy to listen to yet hugely emotive. Vocally it celebrates love and connection and is a real heart melter. On the flip side you get something just as groovy in 'You Don't Wanna Be My Baby.' This one has harmonies that float high in the sky and plenty of nice strings to add further richness.