Inspired by the anniversary of Albert Einstein’s ground-breaking theory, this upliftingly ambient single isn’t weighed down by its subject matter
Diagrams is the artistic moniker of Sheffield-based songwriter Sam Genders. He has released new single General Relativity to mark the 100th anniversary of the last of Albert Einstein’s lectures, in which he put forward his revolutionary theory. Working with producer and multi-instrumentalist Martin Gregory Smith, it is another fine effort from the former Tunng man.
Finding the emotion within the equations, the song is reminiscent of the Super Furry Animals at their ambient best. The lyrics manage to evoke the magic and romance of discovery – “We dance like two electrons held in the orbit of a radium ion,” he sings, lost in scientific awe. Twinkling beams also light up the track, augmented by a heavenly brass solo.
Genders’ fascination with the subject is evident from the start, but rather than channel it into something gimmicky, the theme becomes the perfect setting for Diagrams’ atmospheric sound. General Relativity could sit comfortably on last album Chromatics and is yet another showcase for his subtle brilliance.
Verdict: A magical musical discovery
Duncan Haskell
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