Ben Jacobs, operating under the moniker Crackazat, has released "SUN," an LP that solidifies his reputation as a formidable bandleader and a maestro of modern jazz-funk. This latest offering marks a significant evolution in his artistic trajectory, transforming what was once a subtle undercurrent of jazz-funk in his productions into a resounding declaration. Released a decade and a half after his initial forays into the electronic music scene with labels such as Future Boogie and Local Talk, "SUN" is a testament to Jacobs’ meticulous craftsmanship, blending live instrumentation, soulful guest vocals, and an intricate understanding of harmonic and rhythmic fluidity. While resonating with the nostalgic echoes of late ’90s West London broken beat and the broader Brit-funk movement, the album ultimately transcends specific eras, presenting a body of work designed for enduring relevance.<\/p>\n
The Genesis of a Sound: Crackazat’s Early Forays<\/strong><\/p>\n Ben Jacobs’ journey in electronic music began approximately fifteen years ago, a period marked by a vibrant landscape of house, broken beat, and nu-disco. His early releases on respected imprints like Future Boogie and Local Talk quickly garnered attention within discerning circles. These initial productions hinted at a unique melodic sensibility and a sophisticated approach to rhythm, often incorporating subtle jazz inflections that set him apart from his contemporaries. His sound, even in its nascent stages, demonstrated a clear departure from purely sample-based electronic music, showcasing an innate musicality that suggested a background steeped in traditional instrumentation. This early phase was crucial in establishing Crackazat as an artist to watch, building a foundation of credibility and a loyal following drawn to his unique blend of warmth and intricacy.<\/p>\n Over the years, Jacobs continued to refine his craft, releasing on a diverse array of labels that further broadened his reach and influence. His discography prior to "SUN" includes notable EPs and singles on esteemed platforms such as Heist Recordings, Freerange Records, and Z Records, among others. Each release served as a stepping stone, gradually pushing the jazz-funk elements to the forefront. This progression wasn’t merely a stylistic choice but appeared to be a natural evolution rooted in a deepening exploration of musical theory and live performance techniques. His productions consistently featured rich chord progressions, often infused with jazz voicings, and grooves that felt organic and improvisational, a hallmark of his burgeoning signature sound. This period saw him developing a reputation not just as a producer but as a multi-instrumentalist capable of weaving complex musical narratives within the four-to-the-floor framework of house music.<\/p>\n A Maturing Sound: From Whisper to Shout<\/strong><\/p>\n The transition from a "whisper" to a "shout" in Crackazat’s embrace of jazz-funk is particularly evident in the sophisticated harmonic structures and the prominent role of live instrumentation on "SUN." While earlier tracks might have featured synthesized horn lines or sampled basslines, "SUN" fully commits to the organic warmth and dynamic range that only live musicians can provide. This commitment reflects a trend among electronic artists seeking to imbue their work with greater depth, authenticity, and a timeless quality that often eludes purely digital productions.<\/p>\n Jacobs’ mastery of chord progressions has become a defining characteristic of his recent work. On "SUN," these progressions are not merely functional but serve as emotional anchors, guiding the listener through complex melodic landscapes. They often employ extended chords (e.g., 7ths, 9ths, 11ths, 13ths) and jazz-influenced voicings that create a sense of sophistication and lushness. This harmonic richness, combined with his innate sense of rhythm, results in tracks that feel both intellectually engaging and deeply grooving. The "all-around rhythmic fluidity" mentioned in initial assessments is not just about a steady beat but about the interplay between various percussive elements, basslines, and melodic counterpoints that create a living, breathing groove. Jacobs’ ability to orchestrate these elements, often playing many of them himself, underscores his role as a true bandleader.<\/p>\n Unpacking "SUN": A Masterclass in Modern Jazz-Funk<\/strong><\/p>\n "SUN" is an expansive work that meticulously fuses various stylistic elements, yet maintains a cohesive and identifiable aesthetic. The album is a carefully curated journey through different facets of funk, soul, and jazz, all filtered through Crackazat’s distinctive electronic lens. It stands as a powerful statement on the enduring relevance of genre fusion and the artistic potential found at the intersection of traditional musicianship and contemporary production techniques. The meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the album, from the arrangements to the mix, speaks volumes about Jacobs’ dedication to his craft.<\/p>\n The Art of Live Instrumentation: Crafting Timeless Grooves<\/strong><\/p>\n One of the most striking features of "SUN" is its reliance on live instrumentation. The album is "brimming with live instrumentation \u2014 percussion, horns, bass, the works." This choice is not merely an aesthetic preference but a foundational element that contributes significantly to the album’s warm, organic feel and its timeless appeal. In an era where electronic music can sometimes feel sterile or overly quantized, the human touch of live musicians introduces subtle imperfections, dynamic nuances, and an inherent swing that digital programming often struggles to replicate.<\/p>\n Jacobs\u2019 role as bandleader implies not only his compositional prowess but also his ability to direct and integrate these live elements seamlessly into his electronic framework. This fusion results in tracks that possess the energy of a live band performance combined with the precision and sonic clarity of studio production.<\/p>\n Vocal Nuances and Harmonic Richness<\/strong><\/p>\n Complementing the rich instrumentation are "soul-drenched guest vocals." While specific vocalists are not named in initial reports, their contribution is integral to the album’s emotional depth and melodic appeal. These vocal performances are characterized by their warmth, expressiveness, and ability to convey narratives within the musical tapestry. They often sit comfortably within the intricate harmonic progressions, adding another layer of texture and emotional resonance. The soulful delivery is a direct lineage to classic R&B and soul, further cementing the album’s retro-futuristic appeal. The harmonies, whether supporting the lead vocals or performed by backing vocalists, are meticulously arranged, showcasing Jacobs’ deep understanding of vocal arrangement and counterpoint. This attention to detail ensures that the vocals are not just an addition but an organic part of the overall musical statement, enhancing the album’s lush and inviting soundscape.<\/p>\n Genre Weaving: Echoes of the Past, Sounds of the Future<\/strong><\/p>\n "SUN" masterfully navigates a blend of influences, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new. The album possesses a "vaguely retro-ish feel," which is not a mere imitation but a respectful homage to foundational genres. The influence of "late ’90s West London broken beat" is palpable, a scene renowned for its fusion of jazz, funk, soul, and drum & bass rhythms, often characterized by syncopated, off-kilter grooves. This era championed a more musical and improvisational approach to dance music, a spirit that Crackazat clearly embodies. Similarly, the "Brit-funk" vibe harks back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, when British bands like Incognito, Light of the World, and Freeez injected jazz and funk sensibilities into the burgeoning dance music scene, often with a distinctly smoother, more melodic edge than their American counterparts.<\/p>\n What prevents "SUN" from being merely a nostalgic trip is Jacobs’ contemporary production sensibilities and his ability to infuse these classic sounds with a forward-thinking approach. The clarity of the mix, the crispness of the beats, and the innovative arrangements ensure that while the influences are clear, the outcome is entirely fresh. This balance between retro homage and modern innovation is what truly makes the music "timeless," suggesting it will resonate with audiences for decades to come, much like the classic records it draws inspiration from.<\/p>\n "Promised Right": A Nod to Broken Beat’s Golden Era<\/strong><\/p>\n The track "Promised Right" serves as a prime example of the album’s broken-beat soul aesthetic. Broken beat, which emerged from West London in the late 1990s, was characterized by its syncopated drum patterns that "broke" the traditional four-to-the-floor rhythm, intricate jazz-funk instrumentation, and soulful vocal delivery. "Promised Right" captures this spirit perfectly. Its rhythmic foundation is complex, with a subtle shuffle and off-beat accents that create a sophisticated groove, inviting head-nods and subtle body movements rather than aggressive dancing. The instrumentation would likely feature a warm, walking bassline, jazzy piano chords, and perhaps subtle horn interjections, all supporting a soulful vocal performance that evokes the emotive depth of artists from that era like Bugz in the Attic or 4hero. The track’s arrangement would build subtly, allowing each element to shine without overcrowding, culminating in a rich, immersive sonic experience that truly embodies the "broken-beat soul" designation.<\/p>\n "Nightchild": The Quintessence of Quiet Storm<\/strong><\/p>\n In stark contrast, "Nightchild" is highlighted as a "near-perfect quiet storm gem." Quiet storm is a subgenre of R&B and soul music, originating in the late 1970s and early 1980s, characterized by its smooth, romantic, and often mellow atmosphere. Artists like Smokey Robinson, Sade, and Luther Vandross defined this sound. A Crackazat interpretation of quiet storm would likely feature a slower tempo, lush, atmospheric pads, tender piano melodies, and perhaps a velvety smooth, crooning vocal. The instrumentation would be understated yet rich, with warm basslines and soft, ethereal synth textures creating an intimate, nocturnal mood. The focus would be on melodic beauty and emotional resonance, designed for contemplative listening rather than the dancefloor. "Nightchild" would serve as a crucial emotional anchor on "SUN," showcasing Jacobs’ versatility and his ability to craft compelling narratives across different tempos and moods. Its inclusion demonstrates the album’s breadth and its ambition to appeal to a wide spectrum of soul and jazz enthusiasts.<\/p>\n Resurgence of Live Electronic Music and Jazz-Funk<\/strong><\/p>\n "SUN" arrives at a time when there is a discernible resurgence of interest in live instrumentation within electronic music and a renewed appreciation for jazz-funk influences. A growing number of producers and DJs are moving beyond purely software-based productions, integrating live musicians, analogue equipment, and improvisational elements into their work. This trend can be seen as a reaction against the perceived homogeneity of some contemporary electronic genres, with artists and audiences alike seeking music with more organic warmth, dynamic range, and human touch.<\/p>\n Crackazat, with "SUN," positions himself at the forefront of this movement. His meticulous approach to arrangement and his clear affection for the nuanced interplay of live instruments resonate deeply with this cultural shift. The album also taps into a broader revival of jazz-influenced electronic music, a continuous thread throughout dance music history, but one that experiences periodic peaks. Artists like Kamaal Williams, Yussef Dayes, and acts on labels like Brownswood Recordings have contributed to a vibrant contemporary jazz scene that frequently overlaps with electronic music. "SUN" is not just a product of this environment but a significant contribution to it, demonstrating how these sounds can be integrated into a house music framework with seamless artistry.<\/p>\n Industry Reception and Artistic Trajectory<\/strong><\/p>\n The early reception of "SUN," as indicated by critical commentary, suggests that the album is poised for widespread acclaim. Its combination of impeccable musicianship, soulful emotion, and dancefloor sensibility gives it broad appeal. For the electronic music industry, "SUN" serves as a benchmark for quality and artistic ambition, potentially influencing other producers to explore deeper musicality and live performance elements. For Ben Jacobs, "SUN" represents a definitive statement, cementing his status as one of the most respected and innovative artists in contemporary dance music. It is an album that not only showcases his mastery of his chosen genres but also demonstrates his potential for continued artistic growth and exploration. The extensive use of live instrumentation and the role of bandleader suggest a path towards more live performances, blurring the lines between traditional band setups and electronic acts, further enriching the live music landscape.<\/p>\n In conclusion, "SUN" is more than just another album; it is a meticulously crafted musical odyssey that traces the evolution of an artist who has consistently pushed the boundaries of electronic music. From the subtle jazz whispers of his early career to the powerful jazz-funk shout of his latest work, Ben Jacobs, as Crackazat, has delivered an LP that is both a homage to classic sounds and a blueprint for future sonic explorations. Its enduring quality, rich musicality, and profound emotional depth ensure that "SUN" will shine brightly in the annals of contemporary music for years to come.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Ben Jacobs, operating under the moniker Crackazat, has released "SUN," an LP that solidifies his reputation as a formidable bandleader and a maestro of modern jazz-funk. 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