How To Dress Well

Tom Krell, the mastermind behind How To Dress Well, increases the reverb, falsetto and sharp instrumentals on his sophomore LP, “Total Loss.”

While Krell still uses his signature airy, lo-fi rhythm-and-blues style, here he unveils lyrics that give an intimate look into his dejected soul.

He sings about personal limitations and strained relationships, most notably in “Set It Right,” during which he lists the names of loved ones who have left his life.

The album deals with death, anger and, as the title hints, loss.

Though it features more vocally-driven tracks than its predecessor, such as “& It Was You,” it also includes the DeVotchKa-esque instrumental string track “World I Need You, Won’t Be Without You (Proem).”

There is no melodic constant. Instead, what holds the album together is its heartrending tone.

“Total Loss” is a tragic symphony, and it resonates long after the music ends. 

By Amanda Arnold