SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: MADI DIAZ – FATAL OPTIMIST

MADI DIAZ
FATAL OPTIMIST
ANTI-

Singer-songwriter Madi Diaz returns with her new album Fatal Optimist, less than two years after its Grammy-nominated predecessor, Weird Faith. Known for her prowess in acoustic balladry, Fatal Optimist sees Diaz go even more stripped-back than her previous projects. Her presence in folk music scenes is emblematic of what contemporary audiences love: someone with a guitar who can spill their heart out without all the extra frills. This record has a charming simplicity that helps you fully buy into Diaz’s earnestness.

Diaz’s lyrics seem to organically stem from song titles, repeating these ideas in the chorus. This structure and simple chord pattern make the bridge of “Ambivalence” feel timeless, with its underlying harmonies. Diaz leaves some of her breathy vocals in the mix, creating the energy of a coffeehouse open mic performance, with a quality that feels very in the moment.

The album hits an emotional core with “Heavy Metal,” which opens up with Diaz confronting her connection to her mother. She cleverly sings about her tendency to rage over a sweet and minimal guitar. The juxtaposition of headstrong sentiments and graceful melodies is an excellent way to show the song’s maternal themes.

“Flirting” is a much-needed instrumental switch-up at the halfway point of the LP. There are some quiet piano flourishes towards the end of the track that elevate its pensive tone. Some songs on this record tend to rely too heavily on the weight of their main conceit, which sets a level of predictability. One could say that a little more specificity could easily aid this issue. However, Diaz makes a case to justify this style in “Heavy Metal,” as she says, “In some religions repetition is spiritual.”

 The eponymous final track gains some momentum, adding a little more oomph with drums and electric guitar. It feels appropriate for this to be the most upbeat song. Diaz’s vocal delivery has fun pop flair, while still maintaining its beautifully unpolished spirit. Fatal Optimist has the essence of a hushed lullaby and displays the confidence of an artist who has found her strength in sadness.

Artist Links