Diamond Mine (King Creosote and Jon Hopkins album)
''Diamond Mine'' is a collaborative album by Scottish singer-songwriter King Creosote (Kenny Anderson) and English electronic musician Jon Hopkins. Released on 22 February 2011 by Domino Recording Co., the album is known for its unique blend of Creosote's melancholic, folk-influenced vocals and Hopkins' atmospheric and textured electronic production.
The album's creation stemmed from a chance encounter between the two artists, and the recording process involved improvisational sessions, allowing for a spontaneous and organic feel. The album's themes explore personal reflections, loss, and the passage of time. Several tracks feature prominent use of field recordings, further contributing to the album's immersive and evocative nature.
Critical reception for ''Diamond Mine'' was overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers praising the album's surprising and beautiful synergy between the contrasting musical styles of the two artists. The album was lauded for its emotional depth, atmospheric soundscapes, and the powerful impact of Creosote's intimate vocals in conjunction with Hopkins' innovative production. It frequently appeared on year-end "best of" lists in 2011. The album's success led to increased recognition for both artists, establishing ''Diamond Mine'' as a landmark collaborative effort in contemporary music.