Jakwob - Blinding

James Edward Jacob, aka Jakwob, is a producer who has built his reputation on a string of striking remixes and productions of which perhaps his most famous is his startling edit of Ellie Goulding’s ‘Starry Eyed’ in 2009. However, it seems that Jakwob the remixer and producer is very different to Jakwob the artist.

‘Blinding’ is a disappointingly limp ballad. There is little sonic invention here; the squelching beat provides a functional backdrop for long-time collaborator, vocalist Rocky Nti’s emoting. The lyrics and melody are ever so slightly uninspiring, caked in saccharine with ‘empowering’ lyrical platitudes dominating.

Interestingly, the instrumental version proves to be far more arresting, shorn of the overwrought vocals the dynamics of Jakwob’s production are allowed to flourish, and proves to be a much more satisfying listen.