Jacob Collier - Djesse Vol. 3 (LP)

"Djesse Vol. 3" marks yet another ambitious installment in Jacob Collier's sprawling "Djesse" project. Released in 2020, this volume sharply contrasts its predecessors, diving deep into the realms of R&B, neo-soul, funk, and electronica. With this album, Collier continues to showcase his unbridled creativity, merging genres and pushing musical boundaries..

From the onset, "CLARITY" serves as a brief yet mesmerizing introduction, with layers of harmonized vocals setting the tone for the sonic journey ahead. The journey swiftly moves into "Count The People," a track that combines electronic beats with Collier's intricate vocal arrangements, featuring Jessie Reyez and T-Pain..

Songs like "In My Bones" featuring Kimbra and Tank and The Bangas, and "All I Need" with Mahalia and Ty Dolla $ign are undeniable grooves, showcasing Collier's ability to craft catchy, contemporary tunes while maintaining his unique flair for complexity and innovation..

One of the standout tracks, "Time Alone With You," features Daniel Caesar, blending soulful vocals with a laid-back, jazzy backdrop. It's a testament to Collier's prowess as a collaborator, seamlessly melding his style with that of his featured artists..

The album is not without its introspective moments. "Light It Up On Me" oscillates between hauntingly sparse verses and a powerful, bass-heavy chorus, exploring themes of vulnerability and introspection. "Butterflies" then takes listeners on a whimsical, airy journey, with its fluttering harmonies and playful instrumentation..

"Djesse Vol. 3" is marked by its electronic production, a departure from the more acoustic-oriented soundscapes of the earlier volumes. However, Collier's signature – intricate harmonies, unexpected modulations, and a deep understanding of musical theory – is evident throughout. Whether it's the ever-shifting rhythms of "He Won't Hold You" or the experimental sound design in "To Sleep," Collier's fingerprints are unmistakable..

Perhaps the most captivating aspect of "Djesse Vol. 3" is its ability to feel both expansive and intimate. Songs like "Running Outta Love" featuring Tori Kelly offer a close, personal touch, while tracks like "Sleeping On My Dreams" present a larger-than-life soundscape, taking listeners on an auditory rollercoaster..

In conclusion, "Djesse Vol. 3" stands as a testament to Jacob Collier's ever-evolving artistry. It's an album that challenges conventions, blurs genre lines, and offers a fresh perspective on contemporary music. While it's a departure from the earlier volumes in the "Djesse" series, it retains the essence of what makes Collier a musical force to be reckoned with..

What is the "Djesse" series and where does "Vol. 3" fit within it?.

The "Djesse" series is an ambitious project by Jacob Collier, comprising four distinct volumes of albums. Each volume explores different musical landscapes and themes. "Djesse Vol. 3," released in 2020, is the third installment and is characterized by its modern sound palette, blending elements of R&B, electronic, and pop music. It contrasts with the previous volumes, which leaned more towards orchestral and acoustic styles..

How does "Djesse Vol. 3" differentiate from the other volumes in terms of musical direction?.

While "Vol. 1" showcased a grand, orchestral setting and "Vol. 2" leaned into a more acoustic world, "Djesse Vol. 3" is rooted in contemporary genres, with a strong influence of electronic production, hip-hop beats, and urban soundscapes. It's perhaps the most accessible of the series for mainstream listeners, blending Collier's complex musical ideas with popular music motifs..

Who are some notable collaborators on "Djesse Vol. 3"?.

Jacob Collier is known for his diverse collaborations, and "Djesse Vol. 3" is no exception. The album features artists like Ty Dolla $ign, T-Pain, Jessie Reyez, Daniel Caesar, Rapsody, Kiana Ledé, and Tori Kelly, among others..

How was the album received critically?.

"Djesse Vol. 3" was widely praised by critics for its innovative fusion of genres and its intricate, layered production. It cemented Collier's reputation as a prodigious talent in music, with many highlighting his ability to bring complexity to modern pop and R&B sounds. The album also earned Collier several Grammy nominations, with wins in multiple categories..

What is the significance of the song "All I Need" from the album?.

"All I Need," a collaboration with Mahalia and Ty Dolla $ign, is one of the standout tracks from "Djesse Vol. 3." It's a perfect representation of the album's melding of intricate harmonies with contemporary production. The song was not only a critical favorite but also gained considerable traction in mainstream music circles, showcasing Collier's ability to bridge the gap between high-level musicianship and accessible pop music.