Diplo returns to his southern roots with new album

In light of this year’s outright unusual antics, it almost makes sense that Diplo just dropped a country album. Out now on Columbia Records is Diplo’s second album Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley Chapter 1: Snake Oil. After nearly 23 years and an outstanding number of supergroups it seems Diplo may be headed in a more mature direction. One of Diplo’s best characteristics is his ambiguous nature; he seemingly predicts the next breakout trend far before it arrives. Although, it was Diplo’s Mississippi childhood that truly inspired this fusion of electronic pop gone country. Hosting a huge roster of talented collaborators Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley Chapter 1: Snake Oil is packed full of danceable tunes and cliche countryisms.

At first glance, Diplo’s latest project displays a noticeable distinction in it’s partial usage of Diplo’s real name, Thomas Wesley. This inclusion feels like a personal reveal of one of Diplo’s many personalities, and as such, Thomas Wesley aims to pay homage to his southern roots. Further attention to album title shows an obvious foreshadowing that Thomas Wesley’s danceable country tunes will keep on truckin’; as the reference of chapters tends to initiate a series. Although following chapters will have a difficult time one upping their precursor’s extensive and diverse list of collaborations! From stars like Zac Brown and Thomas Rhett to the masked singer Orville Peck and even the Jonas Brothers, this album boasts over thirteen different artistic minds. Give a listen to their combined effort in Diplo Presents Thomas Wesley Chapter 1: Snake Oil below!

While it sounds hard to believe Diplo’s first studio album Florida dropped nearly sixteen years ago, it’s shockingly true. Of course Diplo has provided no shortages over the years of his eclectic styles, taking part in more collaborative supergroups than you’d think. First came his work with M.I.A., leading to their Grammy nominated single Paper Planes. As Diplo’s career soared so did his personal label, Mad Decent, allowing him to produce for some the music industry’s biggest stars. Next up came the formation of Major Lazor, eventually enlisting both Jillionare and DJ Walshy Fire as the groups original trio. Fueling parties worldwide, Diplo found himself working alongside Skrillex, hence the legendary Jack Ü. As of recent years Diplo has assembled two more supergroups, LSD and Silk City, and solidified himself as one of the most versatile artists of our time.

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