Nostalgia, Ultra (stylized as
nostalgia,ULTRA.) is the debut
mixtape by American recording artist
Frank Ocean. It was released on February 16, 2011. Ocean was inspired to make the mixtape, after
Hurricane Katrina in his native
New Orleans and his subsequent relocation to
Los Angeles. After joining
alternative hip hop group
Odd Future in 2010, he
self-released the mixtape, without initial promotion.
Nostalgia, Ultra has a unique
R&B aesthetic and features surreal themes and nostalgic lyrics. The songs mostly focus on interpersonal relationships, personal reflection, and social commentary. Following its release, the mixtape received rave reviews from
music critics. The cover features a picture of a bright orange 1980s
BMW E30 M3, Ocean's "dream car", in plain sight amidst lush greenery.