The ever-adventurous music scene witnessed a buzzworthy moment as King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard descended upon the city with their signature marathon concert, drawing in scores of fans eager for a night of eclectic rock wizardry. King Gizzard, hailing from Melbourne, has a reputation for high-energy shows, and they didn't disappoint, delivering a diverse set that whisked the crowd through their staggering discography of over 26 studio albums—a fact not lost on these musicians who continue to produce new material at a frenetic pace, according to Rock Cellar Magazine.
While some concert-goers at their recent Los Angeles show at the Kia Forum needed a breather partway through the band's exhaustive 25-song set, dedicated fans seem to have no qualms about diving into the deep end of the Gizzard pool. In a Rock Cellar Magazine report, the dedication Gizzard fans exhibit borders on Dead Head levels of passion, complete with makeshift marketplaces and an electric atmosphere heightened by the band's unpredictable on-stage antics. The band continues to honor their connection with their ever-growing fan base, who are just as versatile and enthusiastic as the music the band is known for.
King Gizzard's creative drive was further highlighted in a pre-concert interview with frontman Stu Mackenzie, where his musings on recent projects and touring habits shed light on the band's current sonic explorations. "Flight b741" was described by Mackenzie as a departure from their "ultra-conceptual" previous works, opting for a more natural, jam-oriented approach. "So, you guys didn’t intend to do a super jammy, ‘70s kind of thing?" he was asked. "No, we went in with no ideas, kind of on purpose and we were the songs' 'napkin sketches,'" Mackenzie told Phoenix New Times.
The exploratory essence of King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard is perhaps what magnetizes a global fellowship of fans to their live performances. This is evidenced in their shows, where anything from heavy metal to psychedelic rock can find a place in the setlist. Their recent LA show proved no different, with Rock Cellar Magazine detailing guest appearances and a showcase of the band's "chameleonic skills." With a new challenge at every turn, the band maintains a freshness and unpredictability that continues to surprise and gratify audiences around the world.
King Gizzard's upcoming plans suggest no slowing down for the Aussie rockers. They are slated to take their expansive reach to a whole new level in 2025, embarking on a tour that promises to bring an orchestra along for the ride in most cities. In what could only be seen as true Gizzard fashion, they are poised to yet again redefine the typical boundaries of rock concerts, illustrating their commitment to their craft, their fans, and to the evolution of their sound.
