Jacob Collier’s latest album celebrates the guitar and explores alternate tunings
Jacob Collier, the multifaceted musical virtuoso, has recently unveiled an innovative studio album that pushes the boundaries of guitar music. Titled The Light For Days, this album is a unique exploration of the guitar, showcasing Collier’s creativity and mastery of the instrument. What sets this album apart is Collier’s choice to use a five-string guitar exclusively, tuned to an unconventional DAEAD tuning. This departure from the conventional six-string guitar allows Collier to dive deeper into the instrument’s possibilities and unleash a wave of musical ideas.
Having recently completed his ambitious Djesse album series, Collier was overflowing with creative energy and keen to explore new musical avenues. He saw the five-string guitar as an intriguing challenge and an opportunity to focus on the limitations of a single instrument. With a self-imposed deadline of just four days, Collier set out to create an entire album using the five-string guitar as the primary tool. The recording process was intense, but Collier embraced the time constraints and limitations, viewing them as a source of inspiration rather than hindrance.
The resulting album is a testament to Collier’s ingenuity and musical prowess. The songs on The Light For Days are raw, heartfelt, and deeply personal, reflecting Collier’s unfiltered creative process and his dedication to exploring the acoustic guitar’s sonic possibilities. The album features a mix of covers and original compositions, each highlighting the unique character of the five-string guitar.
To achieve the distinctive sound of the album, Collier utilized his custom Strandberg Boden signature guitar, which comes equipped with five strings as standard. This guitar served as the cornerstone of his creative process, allowing him to express his musical ideas with clarity and precision. In addition to the five-string guitar, Collier also incorporated a 10-string acoustic guitar into the album, further expanding the sonic palette of the music.
For those looking to embark on a similar creative journey, Collier’s approach offers valuable insights. By embracing constraints and working within limitations, artists can unlock new levels of creativity and innovation. Collier’s dedication to the five-string guitar is a testament to the instrument’s versatility and expressive potential. Through his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to his artistic vision, Collier has crafted a truly unique musical experience that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
The Light For Days stands as a testament to Jacob Collier’s artistry and his unwavering passion for musical exploration. By pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the guitar, Collier has created an album that is both a technical marvel and an emotional journey. Through his innovative use of the five-string guitar, Collier demonstrates the boundless creative potential of the instrument and reaffirms his status as a pioneering force in contemporary music.