Let's dive into the mind-blowing world of Jacob Collier, a musical prodigy known for his insane harmonic complexity and innovation. This article is all about unpacking what makes his music so special, focusing particularly on his harmony compilations. We're going to explore the techniques, the influences, and the sheer genius that makes Jacob Collier a name synonymous with modern musical innovation.

Who is Jacob Collier?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of his harmonic language, let's set the stage. Jacob Collier is more than just a musician; he's a multi-instrumentalist, singer, arranger, composer, and producer. Hailing from London, Collier gained initial recognition through his self-made YouTube videos, where he showcased his unique arrangements of popular songs. These weren't your average covers; they were intricate, multi-layered performances where he played every instrument and sang every vocal part, often creating a wall of sound that was both captivating and bewildering. His ability to blend genres, from jazz and funk to classical and electronic music, sets him apart. His innovative use of microtonality, coupled with his deep understanding of music theory, allows him to create sounds that are both familiar and utterly unique. He's not just playing notes; he's painting sonic landscapes. As he evolved, he released his debut album, In My Room, recorded, composed, and produced entirely by himself in his home studio. This album earned him critical acclaim and a Grammy Award, solidifying his place in the music industry. From there, he continued to push boundaries with his Djesse project, a multi-volume album series that explores various musical styles and collaborations. In addition to his solo work, Collier has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists, including Coldplay, Herbie Hancock, and Hans Zimmer, further demonstrating his versatility and appeal across different musical landscapes. His performances are known for their high energy and improvisational elements, often involving audience participation and spontaneous arrangements. Collier’s approach to music education is also noteworthy, as he frequently breaks down complex musical concepts in an accessible and engaging manner through his online content and workshops. Ultimately, Jacob Collier’s impact on contemporary music is undeniable; he’s not just creating music but also inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore and experiment with sound in unprecedented ways.

Deconstructing Jacob Collier's Harmony

Okay, guys, let's get into the good stuff: Jacob Collier’s harmony. What makes it so special? Well, it's a blend of several key elements that he mixes and matches to create his signature sound. Think of it like a sonic spice rack; he’s got all sorts of flavors and knows exactly how to use them. Firstly, Collier is a master of reharmonization. Reharmonization involves taking a familiar melody and changing the underlying chords to create a new and interesting harmonic context. Collier often uses complex chord substitutions, such as tritone substitutions, altered dominants, and quartal harmonies, to add layers of depth and surprise to even the simplest of melodies. These substitutions create unexpected twists and turns, keeping the listener engaged and constantly guessing where the harmony will go next. Secondly, he's known for his use of microtonality. Most Western music is based on a 12-tone scale, but Collier often incorporates notes that fall between those tones. This creates subtle dissonances and unique textures that add an ethereal quality to his music. Microtonality allows him to explore the nuances of pitch and create harmonies that are both rich and complex. Thirdly, Collier frequently employs polychords. Polychords involve stacking two or more chords on top of each other to create a denser and more complex harmonic structure. This technique allows him to create harmonies that are both dissonant and consonant, adding a sense of tension and release to his music. Each chord layer can have its own distinct character and function, contributing to the overall harmonic complexity. Additionally, Collier often uses extended chords (chords with added 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths) and altered chords (chords with altered 5ths and 9ths) to create a richer and more colorful harmonic palette. These chords add depth and sophistication to his arrangements, making them sound both modern and timeless. Finally, voice leading is crucial in Collier's harmonic approach. He pays meticulous attention to how each voice moves from one chord to the next, ensuring smooth transitions and avoiding awkward intervals. This careful attention to voice leading helps to create a sense of coherence and flow, even in the most complex harmonic passages. It’s this combination of reharmonization, microtonality, polychords, extended chords, altered chords, and careful voice leading that gives Jacob Collier’s harmony its distinctive and captivating sound.

Analyzing Specific Harmony Compilations

To really understand Jacob Collier’s harmonic genius, let's break down some specific examples from his harmony compilations. One standout is his arrangement of "Pure Imagination" from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. In this piece, Collier takes a relatively simple melody and transforms it into a harmonic wonderland. He uses lush, extended chords and unexpected chord substitutions to create a sense of magic and wonder. For example, he might replace a simple C major chord with a Cmaj9#11, adding a layer of harmonic color that elevates the entire arrangement. Also, pay attention to his version of "Moon River." The original is already beautiful, but Collier adds layers of complexity through his reharmonization. He introduces chords that you wouldn't typically expect, creating a sense of surprise and sophistication. He might use a tritone substitution or an altered dominant chord to add tension and then resolve it in an unexpected way. The voice leading is also impeccable, ensuring that each chord transition is smooth and seamless. Another great example is his take on "Over the Rainbow." Collier's arrangement is filled with unexpected twists and turns. He uses polychords and microtonal inflections to create a sound that is both familiar and completely new. He might stack a C major chord on top of an Eb major chord, creating a complex and dissonant harmony that resolves beautifully. The use of microtones adds a subtle but noticeable texture to the arrangement, giving it an ethereal quality. Take the time to listen closely to how he manipulates the harmony to create a sense of emotional depth. What’s also remarkable is how he often builds his arrangements layer by layer, adding vocal harmonies, instrumental textures, and rhythmic complexities as the song progresses. This creates a dynamic and evolving soundscape that keeps the listener engaged from beginning to end. Also, be sure to check out his original compositions, such as "Hideaway" or "All I Need," to hear his harmonic ideas in full force. These songs are filled with his signature harmonic techniques, showcasing his ability to create complex and beautiful music from scratch. By analyzing these specific examples, you can start to understand the building blocks of Jacob Collier’s harmonic language and appreciate the depth and complexity of his musical vision.

The Impact and Influence of Jacob Collier

Alright, let's talk about Jacob Collier’s impact. He's not just a technical wizard; he's influencing a whole new generation of musicians. His innovative approach to harmony has inspired countless artists to push the boundaries of what's possible in music. Collier’s influence can be seen in a variety of ways, from his use of microtonality and polychords to his emphasis on improvisation and experimentation. He's shown that it's okay to break the rules and try new things, and that's incredibly empowering for aspiring musicians. One of the most significant impacts of his work is his ability to democratize complex musical concepts. He breaks down advanced techniques into accessible and understandable lessons, making them available to anyone with an internet connection. This has helped to lower the barrier to entry for aspiring musicians who may not have access to formal music education. His online content, including YouTube videos, masterclasses, and workshops, provides a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for musicians of all levels. Collier has also had a significant impact on the way music is produced and consumed. His self-produced albums and videos have shown that it's possible to create high-quality music without relying on traditional record labels or studios. This has empowered independent artists to take control of their own careers and create music on their own terms. Additionally, his interactive live performances have redefined the concert experience, involving audiences in the creative process and blurring the line between performer and listener. He’s also influenced how educators approach music theory. His engaging and innovative teaching methods have encouraged educators to move beyond traditional methods and embrace more interactive and creative approaches. This has helped to make music theory more accessible and relevant to students, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of music. The ripple effect of his influence is undeniable, and he continues to shape the future of music through his innovative approach to harmony and his commitment to music education. As more musicians embrace his techniques and philosophies, we can expect to see even more exciting and innovative music in the years to come. Ultimately, Jacob Collier’s legacy will be defined not only by his own accomplishments but also by the countless musicians he has inspired to explore the boundaries of music and push the limits of their own creativity.

How to Incorporate Collier's Harmony into Your Music

So, you're inspired by Jacob Collier’s harmony and want to incorporate some of his techniques into your own music? Awesome! Here’s how you can get started. Firstly, start with the basics. Understand the fundamentals of harmony, including chord progressions, voice leading, and basic chord substitutions. You can't run before you can walk, so make sure you have a solid foundation before you start experimenting with more advanced techniques. Secondly, experiment with reharmonization. Take a simple melody and try changing the underlying chords. Use chord substitutions, such as tritone substitutions or altered dominants, to add some flavor. See how different chord voicings can change the mood and emotion of the melody. Thirdly, explore extended chords. Start using chords with added 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths in your arrangements. These chords can add a layer of richness and sophistication to your music. Experiment with different voicings to find the ones that sound best to your ear. Also, try incorporating polychords into your compositions. Stack two or more chords on top of each other to create denser and more complex harmonies. Be mindful of the overall sound and make sure the polychords resolve in a pleasing way. Microtonality can add a subtle but noticeable texture to your music. Experiment with notes that fall between the traditional 12-tone scale to create unique and ethereal sounds. Be careful not to overuse microtones, as they can sound dissonant if not used properly. Pay close attention to voice leading. Ensure that each voice moves smoothly from one chord to the next, avoiding awkward intervals. Good voice leading can help to create a sense of coherence and flow, even in the most complex harmonic passages. Listen to Jacob Collier’s music carefully and try to identify the specific techniques he uses. Transcribe his arrangements and analyze his chord progressions to gain a deeper understanding of his harmonic language. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The best way to learn is by doing, so get creative and see what you can come up with. You may not sound exactly like Jacob Collier right away, but with practice and experimentation, you can develop your own unique voice and incorporate some of his techniques into your music. Remember, the key is to have fun and explore the possibilities of harmony. As you become more comfortable with these techniques, you'll be able to use them to create music that is both innovative and beautiful.

Conclusion

Jacob Collier is a true musical visionary. His innovative approach to harmony has captivated audiences around the world and inspired a new generation of musicians. From his intricate arrangements to his groundbreaking use of microtonality, Collier has redefined what's possible in music. His willingness to experiment and break the rules has paved the way for new and exciting sounds, and his commitment to music education has empowered countless musicians to explore their own creativity. As he continues to push the boundaries of music, Jacob Collier's influence will only continue to grow. His legacy as a musical innovator is secure, and his music will continue to inspire and delight audiences for generations to come. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just a casual listener, there's something to be learned from Jacob Collier's music. So, take some time to explore his work, listen closely to his harmonies, and let his creativity inspire you to explore your own musical potential. You might be surprised at what you discover. Ultimately, Jacob Collier’s story is one of passion, innovation, and dedication. He shows us that anything is possible with hard work and a willingness to explore the unknown. So, go forth and create, and let the spirit of Jacob Collier guide you on your musical journey.