What makes Dizrythmia by Split Enz notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, as it showcased the band's distinctive sound and established them as an influential act in the art rock scene. Dizrythmia peaked at number 19 on the New Zealand charts and helped pave the way for their later international success, particularly as they transitioned into a more mainstream sound. Dizrythmia is Split Enz's third studio album, released in 1977 during a period of creative expansion following their breakthrough with the previous album, Second Thoughts. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique identity and experimenting with diverse musical styles, which would later define their legacy.

Who is Dizrythmia for?

Dizrythmia works well if you're into steady mid-tempo listening experience, whimsical lyrical storytelling moments and catchy hooks for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Dizrythmia?

Dizrythmia has 10 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Dizrythmia

Split Enz · 1977

43 min · 10 tracks · new wave

A whimsical blend of eclectic sounds, dizzying rhythms, and theatrical performances that embody the essence of art rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bold as Brass — Opening with vibrant instrumentation and playful lyrics, this track encapsulates the band's quirky charm and sets the tone for the album's eclectic nature.
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Without a Doubt — This standout track features rich harmonies and introspective lyrics, showcasing the band's ability to blend emotional depth with inventive pop melodies.
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Charlie — With its theatrical storytelling and dynamic shifts in tempo, this song highlights Split Enz's theatrical influences while emphasizing their lyrical creativity.
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Another Great Divide — Closing out the album, this track combines lush arrangements with reflective lyrics, illustrating a maturity in songwriting that hints at their future direction.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

Dizrythmia showcases eclectic songwriting and unique sound, though it may not fully sustain interest over time.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brass-heavy track that sets a playful tone, followed by a series of songs that shift between upbeat tempos and more reflective moments.
Several tracks feature unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.
The use of layered harmonies and theatrical vocal deliveries creates a distinctively whimsical atmosphere throughout the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo listening experience
whimsical lyrical storytelling moments
catchy hooks for sing-alongs
intricate arrangements for detail lovers

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, instant gratification
dislike cohesive album structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Dizrythmia is Split Enz's third studio album, released in 1977 during a period of creative expansion following their breakthrough with the previous album, Second Thoughts. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique identity and experimenting with diverse musical styles, which would later define their legacy.
Stylistic neighbors: Crowded House· XTC· The B-52's