Biography
Durand Jones & The Indications is an American retro soul group formed in 2012 by singer Durand Jones, singer/drummer Aaron Frazer, and guitarist Blake Rhein. The band originated at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, where Frazer and Rhein met Jones, a Louisiana native studying classical saxophone. Their shared passion for vintage soul records and songwriting led to the creation of the group, which quickly became a prominent force in the soul revival movement. The Indications released their self-titled debut in 2016, followed by 'American Love Call' in 2019, 'Private Space' in 2021, and 'Flowers' in 2025, each album expanding their blend of classic R&B, soul, and disco with socially conscious lyrics and lush arrangements.
Aaron Frazer, born in 1991 in Baltimore, Maryland, serves as the band's drummer and co-lead vocalist, renowned for his falsetto. Frazer started making hip-hop beats in high school before pivoting to sound engineering at Indiana University, where he met his future bandmates. His songwriting and vocal talents helped shape the group's signature sound, notably on tracks like 'Is It Any Wonder?' and 'Morning In America.' Frazer has also pursued a solo career, releasing 'Introducing...' in 2021, produced by Dan Auerbach, and 'Into The Blue' in 2024, both albums showcasing his ability to fuse soul, gospel, country, and hip-hop influences into contemporary retro soul.
The Indications are celebrated for their energetic live performances, dual lead vocals, and crate-digging sensibility, drawing inspiration from classic soul while experimenting with modern production techniques. Their legacy lies in revitalizing the genre for new audiences, influencing a wave of young musicians and earning critical acclaim for their authentic yet innovative approach to soul music.
Fun Facts
- Aaron Frazer discovered his signature falsetto by accident while recording with the Indications, which became a defining feature of the band's sound.
- Frazer started out making hip-hop beats as a teenager before transitioning to soul and R&B.
- The band's debut album was recorded on a Tascam four-track recorder, emphasizing their DIY ethos.
- Durand Jones & The Indications played their first and only show in 2014 before their debut album was reissued and gained widespread attention.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Mississippi John Hurt - Frazer cites country blues legend Mississippi John Hurt as a formative influence, especially in blending country Western elements into soul music. (Frazer's solo albums) [2010s–present]
- Jerry Butler - The Indications bonded over sampling Butler's 'Just Because I Really Love You,' which influenced their songwriting and production style. (Early Indications recordings) [2012–2016]
Key Collaborators
- Durand Jones - Co-lead vocalist and core songwriter for the band; frequent collaborator on all group albums and select solo projects. (All Indications albums, Frazer solo record production) [2012–present]
- Blake Rhein - Guitarist and producer; co-founder of the band and key contributor to songwriting and production. (All Indications albums) [2012–present]
- Steve Okonski - Keyboardist; joined the band in 2017 and collaborates with Frazer on jazz projects. (Indications albums, Okonski's jazz record) [2017–present]
- Dan Auerbach - Produced Frazer's debut solo album, shaping its vintage soul sound. (Introducing... (2021))
- Joel Ross - Vibraphonist featured on 'Private Space,' contributing to the band's expanded sound palette. (Private Space (2021))
Artists Influenced
- 79.5 - Members of Brooklyn group 79.5 contributed backing vocals to Indications recordings and cite the band as an inspiration for their own soul revival work. (Private Space (2021))
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| American Love Call | 2019-03-01 | Album |
| Private Space | 2021-07-30 | Album |
| Durand Jones & The Indications | 2016-03-16 | Album |
| Flowers | 2025-06-27 | Album |
| Live Vol. 1 | 2016-03-16 | Album |
| Private Space | 2021-07-30 | Album |
| American Love Call | 2019-03-01 | Album |
| Durand Jones & The Indications (Deluxe Edition) | 2018-03-16 | Album |
| Durand Jones & The Indications (Deluxe Edition) | 2018-03-16 | Album |
| Durand Jones & The Indications | 2016-07-01 | Album |
| Durand Jones & The Indications | 2016-07-01 | Album |
| Durand Jones & The Indications (Deluxe Edition) | 2016-03-16 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Sea Gets Hotter (American Love Call)
- Witchoo (Private Space)
- Is It Any Wonder? (Durand Jones & The Indications)
- Cruisin to the Park (Cruisin to the Park)
- Been So Long (Been So Long)
- The Way That I Do (Private Space)
- Love Will Work It Out (Private Space)
- Circles (American Love Call)
- Too Many Tears (American Love Call)
- Ride or Die (Private Space)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Durand Jones & The Indications & Aaron Frazer has been played 4 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.