JACOB Collier’s In My Room tiptoes precariously close to the very fine line between genius and insanity.
The most unorthodox of creations, the set fuses elements of Jazz, a cappella, funk, folk, gospel, soul, hip-hop and Brazilian rhythms, with the most staggeringly complex of vocal harmonies.
Mostly self-written, the set contains a couple of lollipops to attract attention, namely a totally futuristic 21st century take on The Flintstones and a faithful rendition of the Beach Boys song that lends its name to the album’s title.
In My Room is unquestionably a very heady cocktail of spirits and influences. Yet incredibly the sole artist responsible for this concoction is a very fresh-faced 21 year old from Finchley, North London.
Although mostly self-taught, Collier’s talent was initially encouraged by his parents, both tutors from the Royal Academy of Music in London, before studying at the prestigious Purcell School.
Collier caught the attention of legendary producer Quincy Jones who financed this treasure trove of goodies. Every sound, every arrangement, everything on this album, comes straight from Jacob Collier.
Not only does he play every instrument, he has invented new instruments for this project, including the Harmoniser, a synthesiser that enables the artist to sing harmonies live by sampling his voice in real time.
Maybe, this project is just a little too clever for its own good, in that it is perhaps too complicated a kaleidoscope for easy listening. However unquestionably, we are going to hear a lot more from Mr Jacob Collier.
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