4/5 Stars
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard is an Australian psychedelic rock band that formed in 2010 in Melbourne, Victoria. The band consists of seven members, Stu Mackenzie (vocals, guitar, keyboards, flute), Ambrose Kenny-Smith (vocals, harmonica, keyboards), Cook Craig (guitar, vocals), Joey Walker (guitar, vocals), Lucas Skinner (bass), Michael Cavanagh (drums, percussion), and Eric Moore (drums, percussion, management). The band is known for its energetic live performances and prolific recording output, releasing thirteen full length studio albums since 2012. King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard's early work was primarily a blend of surf music, garage rock and psychedelic rock, while more recent releases show a broader range of influences, including elements of film music, progressive rock, folk, jazz, soul and heavy metal.
Gumboot Soup is King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizards thirteenth studio album release. The album was released on December 31, 2017 by Flightless Records, its consists of 11 tracks running at about 45 minutes. King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard bring the music back to their roots. By using heavy synthesizer and keyboards throughout the album, the band is able to create fantastic psychedelic rock that is reminiscent of that in the 60’s from the likes of Pink Floyd and The Beatles. The first track “Beginners Luck” , has a great groove that keeps you moving the whole song. The bass guitar and drums drive the song through a soundscape of flutes and synth’s. Other notable tracks like like “Down the Sink” and “I’m Sleepin’ In” really stand out to make you feel the erie emotion their psychedelic music emits. From song to song, the mood drastically changes giving the music a sense of progression that really stands out. The music is very experimental with its singing, using heavy reverb and effects to create a sense of space and weightlessness.. Gumboot Soup is a listen that will embark you through the minds of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard. Their psychedelic rock riffs and grooves are truly something special and is definitely worth the time.