Savvy minimal grooves, courtesy of Detroit born Max Jacobson designed to transport the listener to unknown dimensions. Released on Honne Music, “Nature Of The Mind” is funky and subtle, keeping things light while showcasing a plethora of efficient and complex production techniques.
Max hit up his first Detroit Electronic Music Festival (DEMF) at age 17– the world of dance music swept him off his feet. A year later he witnessed a set by Richie Hawtin at Movement that would forever change his life. Only three months after he started DJing, Max was granted a weekly gig at a local college club. Not long after Max wanted to express his creativity in a different way, choosing production as his outlet. Finding his niche on the more minimalistic side of things, Max has perfected his unique style for over a decade. His latest release on “Honne Music” is professionally crafted and embodies the teachings and trials he’s earned and overcome on this journey.
The EP is whimsical from the jump and really nails the hypnotic, deep sense of thinking. The title track brings ethereal vibes with its panning echo and dubby sequences. Heady patterns of percussion link together intelligently with neat sound effects. Triplet synth stabs drone on as the drums become more prominent. A clever washed-out ambience couples with grumbling bass to produce a darker sense of introspection on the otherwise laid-back tune. The intricacy really stands out on this track and ties all its parts together beautifully.
The second track, a remix to “Nature of the Mind” by Vern moves things along in a more playful and spirited manner. Opting for a lower bass sequence and pulled back high-end makes the track dancefloor ready. Staccato on the snare and high hat summons familiar head nodding when listening. Glockenspiel helps with rhythm progression as a warbling synth echo completes the dance package. A light-hearted tune that makes for easy listening.
“After Effects” errs on the house spectrum with upbeat, four to the floor patterns. But it also retains the minimal aspect of the first tracks that Max is known for. Singular low-end hits create a groovy setting for the track’s progression. As the beat ramps up, the cymbals increase in dynamics. As the groove rambles on, the main line synth becomes more prominent while the percussion takes a step back. “After Effects” is airy and provides the feeling of floating.
Max nails the ethereal and minimal vibe with his latest release. A true artistic expression of the inner workings of one’s thoughts, “Nature of the Mind” excels at creating an atmospheric setting that makes for enjoyable listening at any time, in any place.
-Jack Brock Plumb
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