A playful take on pop’s 70s Golden Era, Eric Frazier proves an exceptional storyteller on the glimmering gleeful “That Place.” The songs feel highly sophisticated, with a hint of Steely Dan’s jazz-rock fusion alongside a sly sense of humor. Within the sound, a wide swath of instrumentation filters into the fray, from a myriad number of keyboards to some lush horns and tactile percussion. Right in the center of the whole experience is the thoughtful word choice, featuring lyricism that cuts to the very heart of the matter. Throughout the album, relationships, yearning, and the complicated way life unfurls add to the lovely sense of purpose.
“The Panther Woman” utilizes the wah-wah guitar pedal with a taut funk to incredible effect. Spry rhythms alongside the bluesy chorus make “Everything You Got to Give” a celebratory spirit. Grooves feel gorgeous on the stylish “Fresh Money.” With a Latin flavor is the syncopated play of “Mucho Caliente.” Hooks sink into the listener as “You Don’t Know” features a muscular sense of self. “Chili Pepper” has a good sense of humor. Reflective chords languidly pour out of the slow-moving tempos of “It Gets Back To You.” The robust quality of the sound is the sweetness of “Bean Song.” Keys elegantly cascade downwards with the soothing “Graduation,” where the bass work is exceptionally gracious. “In the Same Place” goes for a confessional approach. Drumming is fantastic on the skill of the sprawling “Mi Corozan.” “Fu Man Shu” closes the album on a high note.
Eric Frazier defies trends and embraces a timeless sound with the contemplative kick of “That Place.”
