p(doom) Vinyl & CDs

Review: Byron Bay 60s-psych revivalists Babe Rainbow are the first band to be signed to King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard's newly created p(doom) Records. When they announced this album at the end of 2024, with the release of single 'Like Cleopatra', it was the label's inauguration. The mystery in all of this, though, is how one earth does King Gizzard find the time to run a label when they release album as quickly as Mo Salah scores goals? Anyways, they clearly have a great ear as they've done the right thing in putting out this album of psychedelic acid pop, with its lysergic jams 80s synth-funk workouts. For all its nostalgia, there are parallels to more modern neo-psych bands that are really appealing, too. 'Aquarium Cowgirl' could have been a great release for the now disbanded London-based band Childhood, thanks to the reverb-y transcendental falsetto and floaty layers of dreamy guitar. Ultimately, this is a great, uplifting mood antidote to all the post-punk and shoegaze that's cornering the market at the moment.

Review: For their 26th album, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard shift from their recent grandiose themes to a more intimate collaboration among six close friends. Flight b741 embodies a primal, instinctual feel, as described by bandleader Stu Mackenzie. The goal was to create something raw and gut-drive full of fun and spontaneity. Drawing from the 70s American rock influences of their youth and their garage-rock origins, Flight b741 is a thrilling, dynamic creation. The album's ten tracks feature rough song structures brought to life by inspired improvisations, unique grooves, and a collaborative vocal approach where each band member contributes their voice. The album feels like a joyous weekend with friends, filled with moments of profound connection and exhilarating musical expression. Flight b741 is a beacon to King Gizzard's ability to innovate. delivering a raw and engaging musical experience.