Diplo - Express Yourself EP

Diplo
Express Yourself EP
Mad Decent (2012)
By Luke Nozicka

Philadelphia-native DJ and producer Thomas Wesley Pentz released his latest EP under his stage name Diplo this past June, on his very own record label, Mad Decent. During the time it was released, Diplo was also producing Usher’s radio hit “Climax,” working on a new Major Lazer collaboration, and publishing his book 128 Beats Per Minute. Express Yourself is a culture-clashing, energetic, six-track EP featuring some of the most interesting and upcoming musicians from all parts of the world.

The title track, which kicks off the album, features New Orleans MC Nicky Da B, and is full of rugged bass synths lapped with a catchy drum line beat. Second on the EP is a song called “Barely Standing,” which features British Columbian dubstep superstar Datsik. It’s a bass-filled, fast-paced club banger that is complimented nicely by the vocals of California pop star Sabi. “No Problem,” which starts with a summer vacation feel and high-pitched vocal samples, is the only track on the EP that is explicit. Orange County producer Flinch and Canadian singer My Name Is Kay are both featured on the song; the former is responsible for the indescribable, room-filling bass and the Star Trek laser noises. The fourth song is called “Move Around” and features GTA and Elephant Man. It's full of aggressive vocals and Jamaican samples layered over a hypnotizing bass that will leave listeners mesmerized. The fifth track, “Butters Theme,” featuring DC and Richmond producers Gent and Lawns, is full of funky beats that escalate as the song progresses into a high-energy dance anthem. The song has a unique drum sequence and a Middle Eastern feel to it during these high intensity vibes.

Last but not least is the EP’s most popular song on iTunes, “Set It Off.” Featuring Lazerdisk Party Sex, it’s a fun-to-dance-to, high-pitched track with a steady, marching band drum roll. The EP has been a huge success for Diplo, and remains popular even four months later. Overall, Express Yourself can appeal to people of all styles and cultures, and will get anyone dancing in no time.