“Join the Dots” by Mr. Diagonal is a captivating amalgamation of ethereal piano melodies, irresistible vocal harmonies, and an avant-garde flair that takes listeners on a journey through a landscape of dream fragments and experimental pop brilliance. This album, curated from home and field recordings spanning 2018 to 2024, showcases Mr. Diagonal’s unique ability to capture the essence of songs at the moment of their inception. These tracks exemplify his talent for blending many styles and elements, creating an enchanting and universally relatable experience.
The album opens with “Hedges,” a track that immediately sets the tone with its ethereal piano and vocal harmonies. The minimalist instrumentation allows the listener to be drawn into Mr. Diagonal’s world, where each note and phrase seems to float effortlessly. This opening track is a perfect prelude to what the rest of the album holds, promising a blend of simplicity and depth. “California” follows, merging avant-pop and indie pop with a robust brass section, guitar, and drums. The result is a lush, multi-layered soundscape that provides an outstanding listening experience. The track’s energy and intricate arrangements highlight Mr. Diagonal’s prowess in crafting complex yet accessible music. “Orange” stands out as a quintessential indie pop track, characterized by catchy chord progressions and minimalist percussion. It is a delightful and infectious tune that showcases Mr. Diagonal’s knack for creating memorable melodies and engaging rhythms.
With “Sleepwalkers Brexit,” the album takes a turn towards the experimental. This track introduces more keyboards and synth-pop elements, retaining the experimental and avant-garde essence of Mr. Diagonal’s music. The song’s sonic maneuvers are both intriguing and captivating, providing a fresh and innovative listening experience. “The Boy From The Outer Space” and “Into The Rustic Meadows Of My Mind” are both exemplary tracks that blend indie-pop, synth-pop, and minimalistic elements. The vocal harmonies in these songs are particularly striking, adding a layer of depth and emotion that enhances the overall impact of the music. “Brixton Pastoral” offers a more ambient experience, with rich piano leads and lush soundscapes. This track serves as a perfect backdrop for Mr. Diagonal’s vocal maneuvers, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
“Can’t Kill The Love” takes listeners back to the 1980s with its funky, synth-pop vibe. The catchy synth progressions and dynamic beats make it a standout track that is sure to become a fan favorite. Its nostalgic feel is both refreshing and engaging, highlighting Mr. Diagonal’s versatility as a musician. The minimalist approach is further explored in tracks like “David Attenborough,” “Obvious,” and “Passports.” These songs are a clear representation of Mr. Diagonal’s style, characterized by simplicity and profound impact. Each track is a gem that showcases his ability to create music that is both intricate and accessible. The album closes with “I Feel Terribly Bad,” a track that feels like the perfect 8-bit game soundtrack. It’s a fitting end to the album, encapsulating the whimsical and experimental nature of Mr. Diagonal’s music. The song’s playful yet poignant nature leaves a lasting impression, rounding off the album in a satisfying manner.
“Join the Dots” is an experience that captures the essence of Mr. Diagonal’s musical journey. The primitive palette of piano, traveling guitar, percussion, outmoded loops, and obscure synths gives the album a raw and authentic feel. The album serves as both a soundtrack and a standalone masterpiece that showcases his talent as a multifaceted musician and songwriter.
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