North Pacific
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
An artist who splits his time between America and Europe, Mr. Diagonal’s 5th album, North Pacific, illustrates his unique vision of pop, where much imagination and diversity comprise the dozen tracks.
“Bannerghatta” starts the listen with an imaginative vision of folk sounds, as a cabaret quality enters the retro climate, and “Serendipity House” follows with warm piano alongside vivid storytelling that carries a lounge friendly appeal with much mystery.
Closer to the middle, the hazy keys of “Indian Ocean” makes an indelible mark, while the quirky “Hyoryo no Tegami” is a charming bedroom pop tune. The album’s best track, “Red Lighthouse”, explores a distinct version of yacht-rock, complete with a guitar solo courtesy of Ben Carmona.
Towards the end, “Maybe I’ll Build A Boat” uses twinkling percussion and orchestral strings in a cinematic sort of way, and “North Pacific” enters darker areas with much atmosphere in the bare, dreamy setting that you can’t help but be smitten with.
Good luck trying to define Mr. Diagonal’s vision, but let’s just say that blues and funk are part of the equation, and ukulele, sax and flutes are used strategically. Also a member of Black Light Orchestra, Dan Barbenel, aka Mr. Diagonal, plays a handful of instruments here, and combined with his exceptional help, pens a record for those who love to daydream in unconventional ways.
Travels well with: Other Houses- Twins Who Fence; Paar Linien- Paar Linien