King Creosote & John Hopkins – Diamond Mine
The album 'Diamond Mine' is a collaboration between singer King Creosote (KC) and musician Jon Hopkins. Having taken a number of years to put together, the work features moments from over 20 years of KC's work which are given the sometimes orchestral treatment by Hopkins. Often romantic, the songs are records of various aspects of life. There is always a sad undertone to the arrangements and the singing voice of KC is vivid throughout. The music of Hopkins is more than capable of painting the mood. He often does this with the minimal of effort and the minimum of chords, though this only enhances the atmosphere and experience.
'First Watch' opens the album which starts with dim conversation, followed by piano playing simple chords and melody. The chatting seems natural; as though those responsible are oblivious to their words being recorded. It's a novel touch and gets the album off to quite pleasing beginnings.
Simplicity of the music continues with strumming guitar and more of a traditional singing vocal and a lamenting, what seems like an accordion, sound of 'John Taylor's Month Away'. The song builds up nicely and layers are added to bring a lager atmosphere to proceedings. The reversed sound effects and distorted vocal choruses at the end add very nicely to the mysterious feel of the song.
'Bats In The Attic', again, starts off with simple traditional vocals over simple, dynamic piano chords. The vocals are backed and are enhanced with the introduction of the subtle percussion. The mood, or should I say tempo, really breaks sweat and track after track follows without any great surprises. 'Running On Fumes' features traditional singing over plucked acoustic guitar, again building with layered effects and gentle, rolling chords.
'Bubble' is a fuller sounding song, the melancholic singing style still prevailing. This is more like an anthem than most on the album. 'Your Own Spell' sees the return of the simple piano chord phrasing backing to lamenting vocals.
The final song on the album, 'Your Young Voice', shows Creosote expressing great emotion in his voice; pushing the limits of his range very competently. Unsurprisingly the muted instrumentation blends so well and results in a modern take on a very old and traditional style.