Renown American DJ, producer, and songwriter, Diplo returns in 2020 with an album experience that is sure to turn listeners’ endeavors into an epic journey. Released September 4th, 2020, MMXX (roman numeral form for 2020) is a 40-minute collection of ambient, electronic, and experimental ideas conjured by Diplo while containing features from artists such as Mikky Ekko, Lunice, and Good Times Ahead. If you are looking to refresh your listening palette, take a break from the pressures of society, or feel like you’re in a dramatic independent film, MMXX is a great album to appease those desires.
The Grammy-award winning producer has created an extensive discography dating back to 2003, becoming a force to be reckoned with in the dance and electronic community. After 17 years, the now LA-based artist has taken a shift with his production skills shying away from stagnation and creating a mash of epic ambient sounds. It is no clue that Diplo has a knack for experimentation, working with artists such as Trippie Redd, Beyonce, Sia, Bruno Mars, and many more.
You can find MMXX on all streaming platforms
It is also clear that he does not allow himself to be limited to a specific genre and audiences can hear this even more with MMXX. There is some west coast influenced production and sampling on this album and this is apparent in track MMXX- II with its synth lead adding rhythm in this pensive song. Every track is filled with color and progression, displaying the skillset Diplo has acquired since his ascension in the EDM genre.
To get an idea of how MMXX is one of Diplo’s more impactful albums, the artist has premiered music on the app Calm, which is used for meditation and mindfulness. Students, researchers, yogis, and those alike can use this album as an instrument for studying and focus. While listening to this album I was traveling down the long stretch known as Interstate-1 up the Pacific Coast. Listening to this album made my driving experience more relaxed, especially with the rise of raging wildfires causing major traffic throughout the west coast. It is also no coincidence that I drove by Big Sur, where Diplo performed his album in partnership with the Smithsonian Airspace podcast for individuals learning about astronomy.
Be sure to check out Diplo’s MMXX, which is available on streaming platforms and the Calm app.