Okay, I missed the fact that IDK How put out a new album, and let me tell you- I ran to spotify to check it out as soon as I found out. I still am shocked by the replay value and intrigue that RAZZMATAZZ has four years later. Let’s turn to see how their sophomore album compares to a phenomenal debut. 

To start generally, it is important to note that we are getting a different experience from IDK How. Now, this is not to say that this album is complete departure from RAZZMATAZZ because it isn’t- songs like the first track- “DOWNSIDE”- feel like they could be dropped right into that era; however, the RAZZMATAZZ style of writing is not the focal point of this work. 

So, if that’s not the style, then what? IDK How is pulling from a variety of styles and genres throughout this work. As I was listening, I often thought “man, this sounds like a Jazz chart.” We are getting the layering effect that is common in the big band style of jazz that has repetitive ostinatos (rhythms repeating in various voices continuously). We are hearing voice mirroring either in harmony or parallel octaves. This is partnered with sassy bass licks and instrumental features that mimic the act of taking a solo over a chorus. A good example of this comes from “iDIOTS OF Oz.” Being the final track on the record, it provides a snippet of the various styles we heard throughout the entirety of the work- rhythmic layering, emphasized vocal exaggerations, and instrumental groove sections. 

“KISS & TELL” provides us with similar motifs while placing focus on providing moments for instrumental exploration through a solo section. I love how gentle this song starts as it gives a laid back love song style of the 60s/70s. In this, it reminds me of the varying genre influences we hear on top of the general Jazz-forward sound. Their music has a clear Alternative-Pop front, which helps to maintain the modern sound the band produces as a finished product (more of that to come later). Alongside this, IDK How pays homage to the party/new wave style of music: think B-52s but Alternative-Pop. 

Although IDK How is utilizing techniques that drive nostalgia, they are taking advantage of technology and music writing that feels fresh and innovative. GLOOM DIVISION brings back the low, computer generated voice that was featured heavily in their debut work. The use of electronics, synthesizer, and MIDI sounds adds a layer to their soundscape that builds an atmosphere that is both reminiscent of the past but pushes the ticket forward. 

A major geeking moment for me was that vocal range displayed throughout the record, I mean- how are all of those notes even possible and then sung so effortlessly? Also, it would be unfortunate if I didn’t shout out the tracks with killer bass lines: “GLOOMTOWN BRATS,” “SPKOTHDVL,” and “FIND ME.” 

So yes, as I mentioned previously, GLOOM DIVISION is a shift from RAZZMATAZZ. It feels to me that IDK How is leaning further into their nuances that make them unique, unapologetically. Although related, I don’t think fans of their debut are guaranteed to love this new record (initially, give it time) as it pushes their boundaries more. I truly think this album is a shock on the first listen as it chucks the idea of modernism to the side. Luckily, it is also a boomerang, and they take it right back. 

I am going to give this album a 4 out of 5 stars because the writing is something I’ve never heard before. However, I don’t know how the longevity of this record will compare to their previous works as it is more niche and will take a few listens to truly digest.  

*”GLOOM DIVISION” was released on February 23rd, 2024 through Concord Records.