IDAHO
Lapse
Arts & Crafts [2024]
Album Overview: IDAHO, formed in the early 1990s, has maintained a dedicated following for over four decades. Jeff Martin, the band’s driving force, has created a unique sound that has resonated deeply with its listeners. Emerging in the post-grunge era and often associated with the “slowcore” movement, IDAHO has released numerous albums, evolving from its major label days with Caroline/Capitol Records to its independent releases in the 2000s. Lapse is IDAHO’s first new album in over a decade, following their 2011 release, You Were A Dick. The album consists of ten tracks that capture the band’s signature sound. It was recorded in 29 Palms, California, and reflects themes of relationships and the band’s existence. Lapse has a sophisticated slow burn, which is exactly what I wanted to hear again from this band. Every chord has meaning; “Kamikaze” is a more upbeat opener that packs an unseen heat with its foot-tapping drum beats popping! IDAHO has this refreshed confident intensity that at times sound like this could be their last record that gives Lapse a special edge that has not been found in their music for years!
Musical Style: IDAHO’s music is full of atmospheric layers and introspective tones. Jeff Martin’s four-string guitar, coupled with his gentle vocals, creates a sound that is both sparse and richly textured. The band’s music often juxtaposes serene melodies with underlying dissonance, creating a unique listening experience.
Evolution of Sound: With Lapse, IDAHO revisits its roots by embracing collaboration more than in the past two decades. New guitarist Robby Fronzo and returning drummer Jeff Zimmitti contribute to the album, bringing fresh energy and ideas. This collaborative effort marks a return to the dynamic of the band’s early days, enhancing the depth and breadth of their sound. This album highlights a band still at the top of their game!
Artists with Similar Fire: IDAHO’s sound is often compared to other “slowcore” bands such as Low, Codeine, and Red House Painters. Their music also shares a contemplative quality with artists like Bill Callahan, Hayden, and Pedro The Lion, particularly in the way they blend melodic elements with a sense of melancholy.
Pivotal Tracks: Key songs on Lapse include “Kamikaze,” the album’s opening track, which sets the tone with its reflective lyrics and catchy, pulsing melody. “On Fire” recalls the band’s mid-90s sound, which will be an instant hit for longtime fans. Other notable tracks are “West Side,” “Heaven On Earth,” and “Somehow,” each showcasing the band’s evolution and collaborative spirit.
Lyrical Strength: Jeff Martin’s lyrics in Lapse explore themes of connection, introspection, and the passage of time. As always, his writing is marked by its emotional depth and the ability to convey complex feelings with simplicity. Songs like “On Fire” and “West Side” highlight Martin’s talent for blending personal reflection with broader existential questions.
IDAHO LINKS
Website | Instagram | Bandcamp | Arts & Crafts
- Heavy Moss: Dead Slow [Album Review] - November 27, 2024
- Michael Kiwanuka: Small Changes [Album Review] - November 26, 2024
- Father John Misty: Mahashmashana [Album Review] - November 21, 2024