2ŁØT Keep Expanding Their Circle on “Iris,” But the Band Still Drives the Song

There is a lot to mention before even getting to the song itself. 2ŁØT’s new single “Iris” features Eric Krasno, the GRAMMY-winning guitarist whose work across funk, soul, and jam circles has made him a trusted collaborator. It also features Ben Bohorquez and Evan Weiss of The Funky Knuckles. It previews RE/SOLVE, a July 31 album that includes Jon Batiste, Robert Randolph, Elise Trouw, Cameron McCloud, Frank Moka, Mariel Jacoda, and others.

That is a crowded setup, but “Iris” is thankfully a song rather than a résumé. 2ŁØT keep the focus on feel. The track moves with a relaxed, soulful groove, then shifts into funkier territory where Krasno’s guitar becomes an active part of the conversation. The playing is strong, but nobody seems interested in taking over.

That matters for a band like 2ŁØT, whose identity depends on balance. Their self-described Electronic Jam Music blends hip hop, funk, soul, jazz, rock, and electronic music. Those ingredients could easily become unwieldy. On “Iris,” the group sounds less concerned with proving range and focused on making the parts connect.

The song’s emotional center is equally direct. “Iris, you know how beautiful you are” is the line Robert Trusko has pointed to as the heart of the track. It is a lyric about recognizing value that may have been hidden, denied, or difficult to see. The band’s decision to keep the chorus simple helps the sentiment land without excess.

There is also a nice contrast between the song’s polished final form and its casual beginning. Trusko has recalled the band clowning around during the Palm Springs writing retreat where “Iris” first took shape. He and Omar Jahwar II built the rhythm, an experimental switch-up appeared, and Rudy Love Jr. quickly found a verse. That mix of play and focus gives the track some of its charm.

Krasno’s presence fits naturally into that environment. He adds blues and funk tones, especially over the switch-up, while the horns from Bohorquez and Weiss bring lift and melodic definition. The collaborators expand the track, but the core of 2ŁØT remains intact. That is the difference between a feature that feels attached and one that feels absorbed into the song.

As RE/SOLVE approaches, “Iris” gives 2ŁØT a strong and approachable preview of what they are building. The album’s larger concept deals with self-reflection, transformation, and the quieter battles that follow major upheaval. “Iris” handles that territory with lightness. It does not try to solve everything. It simply offers a groove, a reminder, and a little room to bloom.