King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard - Changes
“Changes” shows a fun, synth-driven side of an already impressive band.
BY EVAN SCHWARZ
“Changes” is the 23rd studio album by Australian rock group King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard. The band has been known for its extensive discography, ranging from noise rock and thrash metal to indie pop and jazz. “Changes” is no exception, as it shows a fun, synth-driven side of an already impressive band.
This album sits on the softer, jazzier side of King Gizzard’s discography with high floating vocals from Ambrose Kenny-Smith, punctual bass lines from Stu McKenzie, and strong use of synthesizers throughout. This is the second time the band has had a synth-centric album, reminiscent of “Butterfly 3000'' and tracks from “Omnium Gatherum.” But here in “Changes,” King Gizzard presents a cleaner, sharper sound. This isn’t their most complex album, but it is tight and thoroughly thought out.
Lyrically, this album centers around the idea of change from the politically and environmentally conscious “Astroturf” to the existential dread of “No Body” to the high-concept science fiction of “Gondii.” All of these themes they’ve touched on before; but here they have a brighter, more lighthearted approach.
This album is fun: pop-like, synth-driven fun. You can either listen to the album from start to finish or to isolated tracks. It’s not the most groundbreaking work they’ve put out, but it’s indicative of the direction they’ve been going, just in a more complete, well-thought-out album. If you’re looking for a bright new album to kick back and appreciate, “Changes” might just be for you.