Exploring King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard’s Ambitious “Phantom Island”
A Psychedelic Journey Through Diverse Soundscapes
It’s quite astonishing that it has taken King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard this long to reach a pivotal moment reminiscent of Cypress Hill’s iconic performance at Hullabalooza. The Australian sextet, known for their prolific output, has journeyed through various musical realms, experimenting with styles ranging from garage rock to krautrock, dream pop, and even doom metal with a climate apocalypse theme. Their 27th studio album, Phantom Island, marks a new chapter in their ongoing exploration, incorporating orchestral elements into their already eclectic sound.
Orchestral Experimentation
Originally conceived alongside the previous year’s vibrant project, Flight b741, Phantom Island took a different direction after the band realized their initial mixes felt incomplete. After encountering members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic backstage, they seized the opportunity to collaborate. The British conductor Chad Kelly crafted elaborate arrangements that transformed the original tracks, adding layers of orchestration that both enhanced and complicated their sound.
Contrasting Elements
One of the intriguing aspects of Phantom Island is the tension created by the juxtaposition of psychedelic rock and orchestral instrumentation. For instance, the title track features horns that evoke classic Blaxploitation soundtracks, contrasting sharply with the dreamy verses and chaotic finale. Similarly, “Sea of Doubt” begins with a captivating blend of violins and flutes, but these elements can sometimes overshadow the strong guitar work from band members Stu Mackenzie and Joey Walker.
Highlights and Missed Opportunities
Magic in Cohesion
When the disparate musical worlds of King Gizzard align, the results are electric. “Deadstick” bursts with life, thanks to its exuberant horn section, while “Panpsych” begins with a playful flute solo that evolves into an infectious groove. The Revolver-esque track “Aerodynamic” showcases Lucas Harwood’s bass seamlessly entwined with the orchestral backdrop, creating a soundscape that feels cohesive and dynamic. Mackenzie’s lyric, “If I could have one wish, I’d turn my hands into wings,” encapsulates the album’s ambition.
Overstuffed Compositions
Despite these moments of brilliance, Phantom Island often suffers from a lack of focus. Certain tracks seem overloaded, with innovative ideas swiftly abandoned for less impactful transitions. “Lonely Cosmos,” for instance, shines in its stripped-back form before veering into an unnecessary jazz-funk exploration. “Silent Spirit” harbors a compelling country-rock core that gets lost amidst falsetto proclamations about the passage of time.
Engaging with Grand Concepts
At their peak, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard can tackle expansive themes without losing the essence of their psychedelic roots. The standout track, “Spacesick,” exemplifies this skill, encapsulating the profound experience of witnessing Earth from space. While it may not boast the sweeping melodies of classics like “Rocket Man,” it combines interstellar ambition with melodic wit that speaks volumes. The orchestral arrangements elevate the song, creating an expansive sound that complements Mackenzie’s poignant lyrics.
Conclusion
In summary, Phantom Island is a bold and ambitious effort from King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, showcasing their willingness to explore uncharted territories. While the album has its shortcomings, the moments of brilliance and innovation make it a worthwhile listen. With a bit more refinement, it could have been a truly absorbing experience, but as it stands, it remains a fascinating addition to their ever-evolving discography.
FAQs
What is the musical style of “Phantom Island”?
Phantom Island blends psychedelic rock with orchestral arrangements, incorporating elements from various genres including krautrock and dream pop.
How many albums has King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard released?
As of now, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard has released 27 studio albums.
Who contributed orchestral arrangements to the album?
British conductor Chad Kelly was responsible for the orchestral arrangements on Phantom Island.
What themes are explored in “Spacesick”?
“Spacesick” delves into the unique emotional experience of observing Earth from space, using it as a metaphor for broader existential themes.
Is “Phantom Island” a continuation of their previous album, “Flight b741”?
While it was written alongside Flight b741, Phantom Island takes a different direction by incorporating orchestral elements that were not part of the initial concept.
