Indian Ocean

Recorded in Memphis with the Hodges brothers—the core of the legendary Hi Rhythm Section, which backed Al Green and others in the '70s—Indian Ocean embraces its nostalgia without getting mired in it. The relaxed, old-school soul of the music blends naturally with Frazey Ford’s honeyed vibrato tone and distinct phrasing. Her second solo release is removed from the country-folk of her former band, The Be Good Tanyas, yet taps the same mix of sweetness and melancholy, especially the gorgeous “September Fields” and “Runnin” and the transcendent, utterly charming title track.