Review: "Idlewild" - Outkast

Idlewild - Outkast (4 out of 5) Outkast achieved its most critical success and acclaim as a group after their last double cd release, "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below", which won album of the year Grammy. On this cd many felt the group departed what made it such a great rap offering in the past, by succumbing to Pop-crossover status with hits like "Hey Ya!" and "Roses". But what was not realized, was that this dynamic group was breaking apart and testing new waters in musical innovation. "Idlewild" is the 25 track cd sountrack to the same-titled Outkast movie. The cd is yet again more musical innovation with many fresh offerings, from rap to soul jives and showtune style music. It seems to provide a perfect backdrop for their latest movie, which is in itself like a Broadway show. This album definitely is full of soul and innovation and should take the listener on a musical journey, whether they see the movie it backs or not. The group consisting of two members, Andre 3000 and Big Boi, continues to move in 2 seperate directions yet their music together is still a treat to listeners. This cd wont disappoint as it takes you back to a time when song and dance mesh to take you on a wild musical journey...tracks to enjoy are the marching band backed "Morris Brown", "PJ & Rooster", "Hollywood Divorce", "In Your Dreams", and "Mighty O". "Chronometrophobia" is a track done solo by Andre 3000 exclusively on the fear of timepieces..the track shines and makes me long for ATLiens to come back once again..