Crackazat – Shine (Freerange)

Multi-instrumentalist Ben Jacobs, widely known as Crackazat, reaffirms his status as a leading architect of contemporary jazz-house with the release of his “Shine EP” on Freerange Records. Arriving on April 3, 2026, this four-track collection seamlessly bridges the gap between sophisticated live arrangement and the visceral energy of the dancefloor. Freerange Records, the London-based imprint co-founded by Jimpster and Tom Roberts in the mid-90s, has long been a sanctuary for this specific brand of high-caliber house music. Over three decades, the label has cultivated a reputation for precision and longevity, consistently platforming artists who prioritize groove and harmonic complexity over transient trends. This collaboration feels like an organic extension of that legacy, pairing one of the scene’s most versatile producers with a label that defines the deep house standard.

The EP opens with the “Shine (Club Mix),” a jubilant production characterized by the artist’s signature piano melodies and a rolling, organic bassline that carries an infectious momentum. Following this is the “Shine (Mana’s Dub),” which strips back the melodic layers to focus on a driving percussive core, offering a more utility-focused tool for the discerning selector. The second half of the record features “Crouching Tiger,” which includes a special “Karizma Version.” The Baltimore legend Karizma brings his fragmented, high-energy drum programming to the track, perfectly complementing Lyric Jones’ vocal contribution. The release is rounded out by another “Mana’s Dub,” this time for the track “Whatchu Say,” which emphasizes deep, echoing synth textures and a stripped-back rhythmic sequence that feels tailormade for transitional set moments.

Musically, the “Shine EP” is defined by its impeccable balance of live-recorded elements and electronic synthesis. The interplay between the crisp drum hits and the fluid keyboard solos in the title track exhibits a level of musicianship rarely found in standard club productions. While Jacobs’ earlier works on labels like Heist Recordings explored similar territory, this release feels more refined, leaning into a soulful house aesthetic that pays homage to the masters while pushing the technical boundaries of the genre. The dancefloor utility here is diverse; while the Club Mix is clearly destined for peak-time celebrations under the strobe, the Mana’s Dubs provide the necessary grit for late-night basement sets or early morning sessions. It is a masterclass in modern soulful house that honors its Bristol roots while embracing the artist’s current Swedish influence.

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