Album Review: Jacknife Lee, The Jacknife Lee

Having previously issued a couple of solo records as an aspiring artist, this album represents Garret “Jacknife” Lee’s first outing as the superstar producer of U2, REM, Snow Patrol et al. It skilfully blends together various strands of underground electronica, whilst incorporating guest appearances from the likes of Beth Ditto, Aloe Blacc and Le Petit Noir.

The influence of Lee’s adopted home of LA is evident on this eclectic mix, with the album at different points evoking the city’s rich underground scene, in particular Flying Lotus’ pioneering Brainfeeder label. The Jacknife Lee peaks with ‘Made It Weird’, an irresistible slice of psychedelic hip-hop featuring a brilliant vocal from Open Mike Eagle.

For fans of leftfield electronic music, this is essential listening.