Higher Ground

Released in May 2019, Higher Ground serves as a significant stylistic detour for Diplo, marking his formal embrace of house music and the launch of his deep house-focused label of the same name. Moving away from the frantic, genre-blending 'Major Lazer' sound, this EP focuses on the foundational elements of the 4/4 beat. The four tracks - 'Hold You Tight', 'Give Dem', 'Win Win', and 'Bubble Up' - showcase a more disciplined approach to songwriting, utilizing extended runtimes to allow grooves to settle. The project features collaborations with artists like Blond:ish and Tove Lo, blending pop sensibilities with tech-house architecture. Critically, it was seen as a successful 'back to basics' move that proved Diplo's versatility as a producer beyond the festival mainstage trap circuit. It remains a pivotal moment in his discography, signaling his transition into the more 'mature' club sounds that would define his later residency sets and side projects.