Words by: Sam Walker-Smart
Another day, another King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard album—but what will these madcap Aussies tackle this time? Will their 26th album delve into electro-pop while thematically exploring marine life’s plight? Or might they approach No Wave from the perspective of a tormented NYC ghost?
In reality, Flight b741 is the last thing you’d expect from a band whose previous release was a retro synth album. It’s a straightforward, ten-track celebration of musical camaraderie and upbeat jams. After a few restless years of ascending to festival headliner status and becoming bona fide scene veterans, it was time for the six band members to let loose and revel in the good times.
Brimming with “country-fried rock’n’roll,” Flight b741 is the most accessible and enjoyable record the group has released in years. Recorded over two weeks using inexpensive solid-state amps cranked up to eleven, the album captures a spontaneity and energy reminiscent of its 1970s influences, particularly the Steve Miller Band. From the opening drum roll of “Mirage City,” it’s evident that this album is designed to be the soundtrack for good times with good people. These old-fashioned grooves are perfect for enjoying drinks in the sun, embarking on road trips, or just rocking out when you need a boost. It’s refreshingly unpretentious.
Fans of the group’s earliest albums will surely appreciate Flight b741‘s straightforward edge while enjoying the benefits of the band’s 15 years of musical evolution and production expertise. “Field of Vision” embodies all the hallmarks of a great Gizz track—fuzzed-out guitars, harmonica, and Stu Mackenzie’s signature “WOOOOOO”—but it also features an infectious, ass-shaking rhythm that has been somewhat overshadowed by larger concepts in recent releases. Everything on this album sounds unshackled and genuinely happy.
“Hog Calling Contest” finds the six-piece channeling the Allman Brothers at double speed, blistering through Southern Rock leads while spitting surreal lyrics about rabbits eating cobras or wearing lipstick. The country imagery is present, but it remains predictably unhinged.
On “Le Risque,” drummer Cavs makes his first-ever vocal appearance for the band—a fact that even the group finds surprising. With a raw, intense delivery reminiscent of early Nick Cave, it’s a talent they should definitely explore further on future releases.
Now nearing thirty albums, King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard show no signs of losing inspiration. To the uninitiated, their seemingly insane output and ambitious concepts might appear gimmicky. However, those who are already on the Gizz train know that the band consistently delivers excellent albums and remains one of the most exciting live acts on the planet. They have earned their dedicated fanbase through their impressive versatility and genre exploration.
Flight b741 highlights what makes King Gizzard so enjoyable across their various styles: they’re simply fun. At their core, they’re a group of weirdo musicians playing the kind of tunes they love and want to hear. This is a stellar, back-to-basics release from one of the past two decades’ most unique artists. Long may they continue to expand the Gizzverse.