Diamond Hands – Thank You

Earlier this year, Jon Flynn gave us Citrus, one of 2021’s best albums so far. In addition to this solo effort, he’s been working with Joel Tyler Wall on a new Diamond Hands release.  Entitled Thank You, this new one doesn’t deviate far from past Diamond Hands records. Pop hooks and catchy melodies dominate the day.

One can imagine “The Magazine” pounding out of a vintage 80’s Sony portable radio. The opening guitar cries in “I Lose You Win” carry you to a dream like middle that works so well that it effectively simulates the void that one feels when things go so wrong.

Things logically progress to “Out of My Head”, a tune that transports the listener to a tropical island where we can visualize the narrator pounding down one Mai Tai after another in an effort to forget.

“Mr. Grey” may be my favorite track. The guitar motif reminds me a little bit of a Beach Boys 45 played at 33 rpm. Don’t look for Wilson-like harmonies though. Vocals are scaled back throughout the record in favor of highlighting the two singular voices of Jon and Joel.

This, Diamond Hands’ fourth full length, is as catchy and accessible as any of their previous efforts. Along with Jon Flynn’s Citrus, it’s one of the most satisfying listening experiences of 2021. The release date is September 3. You can GET THE CD at Kool Kat Musik. If you prefer the digital version you can GET THAT HERE.