King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard has entered a new phase that some might describe as their dad rock era, although it’s not only due to the fact that most band members are now parents. After their complex heavy metal concept album from the previous year, the Australian rock band decided to strip things down for their latest release, drawing inspiration from 1970s classic rock. Their 26th studio album, titled “Flight b741,” which was released on Friday, sees the band ditching guitar pedals and opting to record with budget-friendly, used amps from a local pawn shop, according to frontman Stu Mackenzie. The band went back to basics, focusing on instinct rather than careful planning, to create their most collaborative album yet.
The album’s lyrics continue to explore dark and introspective themes that have become synonymous with the band, including struggles with depression and escaping family tensions. Despite the heavy subject matter, the sound of “Flight b741” is notably more upbeat and nostalgic, a shift that Mackenzie attributes in part to the band members’ experiences as new fathers. Mackenzie, who himself has a 3-year-old and a 9-month-old, believes that parenthood has brought a newfound sense of gratitude that seeps into their songwriting.
With four out of six band members now being parents, juggling family life with their music careers presents a unique challenge for King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard. Moreover, the music industry has evolved significantly since the band’s inception in 2010, but their loyal fanbase has allowed them the freedom to experiment with various rock genres without succumbing to industry pressures or trends like TikTok fame or Spotify algorithms.
When discussing their impressive level of productivity, Mackenzie recognizes the struggles of balancing music-making with their personal lives but emphasizes the importance of staying active creatively. The band leader acknowledges the potential pitfalls of slowing down and prefers to stay busy musically to avoid negative distractions. Despite the challenges and changes in their lives and the music industry, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard remains committed to pushing boundaries and creating music that feels authentic and liberating, as exemplified by their nostalgically retro album “Flight b741.”
