King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, “Paper Mâché Dream Balloon”
Release date: Nov. 13
Label: ATO Records
The seventh full-length album from Melbourne, Australia’s neo-psych folk rock outfit King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, “Paper Mâché Dream Balloon,” is the logical extension following the vinyl/digital release of the EP/mini-LP Quarters released this past June. That is to say, Quarters adequately bridged the gap from 2014’s rollicking “I’m In Your Mind Fuzz” and the most recent release “Paper Mâché Dream Balloon.” The heavy riffing and psychedelic dirges of prior releases are largely eschewed on the latest outing, though still evident beneath the surface. So much in fact, that upon first listen of the new long player, I actually had to double check that I was listening to the same band. Not in a bad way, but rather more matter-of-fact. On previous releases, Stu Mackenzie’s prowess as a flautist has largely taken a backseat to straightforward rock ’n’ roll. Here, the flute is fairly (read: very) prominent throughout. If you have less qualms that Jethro Tull won the first Grammy for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance over the likes of Metallica, Iggy Pop, AC/DC, or Jane’s Addiction, this record is possibly for you. At right around 35 minutes, it is still well worth a listen, and I welcome your opinion once you do.
Recommended if you listen to Foxygen, Devendra Banhart, Unknown Mortal Orchestra or Odessey & Oracle-era Zombies
— Jon E. Lynch
