Aaron Frazer shares the local haunts that inspired his love for L.A. on new album ‘Into the Blue’

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As a music artist who has recently moved to Los Angeles from elsewhere, I cannot help but be in awe of this vibrant and diverse city. The rich cultural heritage is palpable as I explore new neighborhoods and discover hidden gems that follow my major life change.

“I flew into LAX with a dream and my cardigan,” Aaron Frazer says with a laugh.

For about a year now, the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has lived in Los Angeles, specifically in its central area, following a ten-year stint in New York. Although Frazer has visited L.A. frequently for songwriting collaborations and performances with Durand Jones and the Indications, his new West Coast residence marks the start of an entirely fresh chapter.

“For Frazer, the term ‘home’ took on a peculiar meaning during his recent transition. It was a tumultuous time as he found himself dealing with several upheavals: the end of a long-term relationship, plans to move to Los Angeles together had changed, and now he was alone in an unfamiliar city. Although he had made acquaintances through music, he didn’t have close friends yet.”

After experiencing a turbulent mix of excitement, grief, solitude, and cautious hope, Frazer produced “Into the Blue.” Releasing on Friday, this is his second solo album, which was also co-produced by Grammy winner Alex Goose. Such introspective and authentic work can emerge solely from the depths of a significant life transformation.

“I found myself drawn to this expansive scene of blue, a blend of desert and ocean with an endless, solitary horizon. This image resonated with me during my journey into the unknown, evoking both the sense of emptiness and the promise of new possibilities. The cowboy imagery adds to this feeling at the intersection of vast nature.”

“The album ‘Into the Blue‘ showcases Frazer’s signature soulful tones and falsetto, while exploring various sources of inspiration. You’ll find traces of ’90s R&B in the track “Far Away,” dancefloor numbers reminiscent of The Black Keys in “Payback,” a disco feel in “Easy to Love,” and a hint of spaghetti western scores in the title track. The influence of hip-hop runs throughout the record, with Goose adding to its energy.”

I’ve recently shared with The Times how relocating from one coast to another allowed me to make my most authentic artistic expressions. Along the way in Los Angeles, I discovered places that became my community.

“[I was] heading into this big sad unknown and that’s kind of what brought me to this image of the blue,” Frazer says. “It’s part desert, part ocean, just endless lonesome horizon, which also really calls to mind the cowboy.”
(Rosie Cohe Photography)

Jeremy Sole’s loft, Boyle Heights

For the past two months in 2022, I resided in a loft in L.A with my partner, who was also my roommate. We stayed in this unique space which once functioned as a fish market back in the 1930s. Now, an artist occupies it, specializing in large-scale installations. The warehouse’s heart houses an extraordinary sight: a massive chrome submarine, approximately 40 feet long, and a three-legged cat named Arlene made her home within its hull.

Upon returning to the place in March 2023, I requested to sublet it once more. However, things had changed drastically – the space was being transformed into a mere warehouse, with Jeremy no longer residing there and the artist frequently absent for various engagements. Alone in this desolate environment, I recalled the cherished memories made here with my partner. Sadly, I now found myself in an empty, unheated warehouse. My new life in L.A. began anew, but unfortunately, the pieces of my shattered past had come crashing down along with it.

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Average pizza

New York’s “home-style” cuisine includes beloved classics such as bagels, dishes from halal food trucks like chicken and rice, and pizza – a staple I find perfectly acceptable in this city.

In my opinion, folks often focus too much on the best pizzas a city has to offer. Instead of making judgments based on exceptional pies, consider assessing a place by its ordinary pizza. Every urban area boasts at least one outstanding, artisanal pizza or an elderly Italian chef crafting individual pies with care and dedication. But let’s be real; who wants that when you can have a late-night slice for just $2.50? In Los Angeles, I highly recommend L.A. Quarter Sheets for its deliciousness, but it falls into the artisan category. Prince Street Pizza in New York is reliable and fits the bill for more affordable, late-night eats, somewhat akin to drunk food.

Frazer’s second solo LP, out Friday, is the kind of reflective, true-to-self effort that can only be made in the nadir that follows a major life change.
(Rosie Cohe Photography)

Little Tokyo

I’m passionate about vintage clothing, and Space City Retro in Little Tokyo is a fantastic find for me. It caters to various budgets – from affordable pieces to authentic 1950s items. The shop owner, Zac Vargas, is more than happy to help you discover unique treasures if you’re searching for specific or authentic 1950s pieces.

In simpler terms, “For Plants,” which is run by the talented Andi Xoch, is a thriving small business and art collective based in Boyle Heights. They recently expanded to a new location nestled within the upper level of Space City Vintage.

At Cafe Dulce, located in both Little Tokyo and The Row, I particularly enjoy their blueberry matcha beverage. I’m a big fan of matcha tea, but coffee doesn’t agree with my stomach.

During my recent visit to Tokyo, despite having tried sushi only a couple of times due to travel restrictions, I was truly impressed with its flavor. It wasn’t part of any deliberate quest for the best, but I genuinely believe that the sushi I had in Los Angeles is on par. A recommendation I’d like to share is Hama Sushi in Little Tokyo.

Sonido del Valle

I’m deeply drawn to Sonido del Valle in Boyle Heights. This place is a treasure trove for me, filled with records that never fail to excite. They have a unique focus on Mexican music and Spanish-sung tunes, making each visit an enriching experience. It feels like stepping into a time capsule, as if I’m browsing through generations of Boyle Heights residents’ vinyl collections that they’ve decided to pass on.

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Studio 5, Atwater Village

The majority of the recording took place at Alex’s home studio, Studio 5. With its stunning interior design, I wouldn’t be surprised if it was showcased in Architectural Digest. Alex’s exceptional taste for aesthetics, having studied graphic design, is evident.

We devoted countless days to that place; I spent the entire past year secluded in Studio 5. This allowed us ample time to explore thoroughly without feeling pressured.

Living in a place filled with cherished people is truly wonderful, as we can genuinely connect and spend quality moments together. At that time, I wasn’t traveling for tours or following a strict production schedule like Dan Auerbach’s. Instead, it felt like an expansive canvas where I could leisurely explore various collaborations. Relocating to Los Angeles was instrumental in enabling me to create this album according to my vision.

The Troubadour

Thinking about my packed show at that venue in February 2023 gives me goosebumps. The feeling of playing on that stage is overwhelming, bringing me to tears every time. These intense emotions are essential for creating my music, but the next phase involves sharing these songs with audiences.

It’s an incredible feeling to perform on the same iconic stage where “Donny Hathaway Live” was recorded. Being a part of this history carries a sense of mystery and magic, like summoning ghosts or practicing witchcraft. That’s the enchanting experience one has when playing at the Troubadour.

The tiny stage gives me an exhilarating feeling. I’m a fan of double-decker settings where it seems the audience is looking down at you. It’s as if a powerful wave of people is engulfing me. I’d also like to acknowledge Paramount in Boyle Heights – what a fantastic venue!

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2024-07-18 21:00