Note: This is the soundtrack to the feature film starring Outkast and set in the 1930’s American South.
Sound: A collision of vintage styles (swing, acoustic blues, marching band, musical theatre) and cutting edge electro synths and beats that come out sounding far more modern than dated – especially since the vocals are a mix of rapping and funky/soulful crooning. Only one track truly takes the leap back 70 years (“When I Look In Your Eyes”), with its jazz piano, muted trumpet, brush stick drumming, acoustic upright bass and pure singing from Outkast’s Andre 3000.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Mighty “O”” (Top 20 Songs of the Year Candidate); “Morris Brown” (featuring Sleepy Brown & Scar)
Medium Rotation tracks: “Idlewild Blue (Don’tchu Worry ‘Bout Me)“; “PJ & Rooster”
Recommended: Production-wise, this is another Outkast marvel. The blending of classic and forwarding-thinking sounds makes for a highly stimulating audio experience. As a collection of songs, though, this is Outkast’s weakest effort to date. Because it’s a hip hop album and a soundtrack, it naturally has some interstitial dialogue (both from the movie and specifically for the album), which works fine. But the majority of the songs also feel like interstitials…that fail to develop beyond a great idea or two and sometimes get bogged down by movie plotline silliness. Yes, Idlewild is a must hear and an interesting listen, though only a small handful of the bloated 25 tracks are standouts.
Grade: B-