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King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard - Float Along - Fill Your Lungs CD (album) cover

FLOAT ALONG - FILL YOUR LUNGS

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard

Psychedelic/Space Rock


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Mellotron Storm
PROG REVIEWER
4 stars Before I review "Polygondwanaland" I felt it was important to review this 2013 release for several reasons. I consider "Float Along-Fill Your Lungs" to be where the band got serious about what they were doing, this is where they grew up. A lot of firsts when it comes to this recording as well. The first studio album to be recorded after playing live gigs together and jamming a lot. They became a cohesive unit with chemistry. They decided to do a Psychedelic record and for the first time experimented with synths, sitar and odd time signatures. This is the first studio album with two drummers. As Stu says this album is a loose ball of vaguely associated tunes and it's Psychedelic!

While 2014's "I'm In Your Mind Fuzz" is what I consider to be their first great record, this contains their first great songs in the 16 minute sidelong opener "Head On/Pill". A track that wasn't planned to be this long, it just blew up while working on it. The closer and title track is incredible. It's the next longest at under 7 minutes and has a folky/psychedelic vibe to it. Just love how it makes me feel, it's so uplifting. Two GIZZARD tracks that are essential to any real fan in my opinion.

The make it or break it for most is the short five tracks in between those two beauties I just talked about. I'm not big on "I Am Not A Man Unless I Have A Woman" and "Help Me Mend The Past". Two poppy tunes with high pitched vocals. Yes catchy but just not my thing. The rest I like although the start of "God Is Calling Me Back Home" is rough but it gets better fast. "30 Past 7" opens with synths before drums and a cool sound join in including vocal melodies then vocals. I like this one a lot. Same with "Mystery Jack" my third favourite for it's 60's sound and how serious and urgent it is. Picturing the band at the mics heads bobbing. A really good tune. "Pop In My Step" is such a catchy tune. Love when it turns full before a minute. When it ends someone in the studio claps.

More like 3.5 stars but I have to round this one up. An important GIZZARD record right here and in my top half of those first 13 studio albums up to 2017.

Report this review (#2778906)
Posted Saturday, July 23, 2022 | Review Permalink
3 stars First I want to make it clear that I really liked this album. It was a very well made atmospheric, dreamy, ethereal psychedelic rock album. A very laid back and immersive experience, which I unfortunately didn't find to be completely engaging as a full length record. After listening to this album several times I had concluded that I loved two songs and thought the rest were decent or good, bringing down my enjoyment for the project as a whole. If I were rating this based on the single track "Head On/Pill" this would be a strong contender for one of the bands best projects and probably be in their top 5 albums ranking for me, it's probably my favorite song the band has ever made, or at least a strong contender. The title track is also great and closes out the album very well. The bands instrumentation remains intricate and thoughtful, with each member contributing to the album's overall lushness. While the melodies and rhythms might be more subdued compared to some of their other works, there's a careful attention to detail that creates an intricate tapestry of sound. The interplay between the instruments, as well as the subtle incorporation of acoustic elements, adds depth to the listening experience.The albums dreamy nature and extended song lengths might not resonate equally with all listeners. While the deliberate pacing contributes to the overall atmosphere, it could potentially lead to moments of drifting attention for those seeking a more immediate and dynamic musical journey. For those accustomed to King Gizzard's more dynamic and experimental works, 'Float Along - Fill Your Lungs' might come across as too subdued or lacking in diversity. The albums dreamy nature could also potentially lead to moments of drifting attention, making it best suited for times when a more introspective mood is desired. Not to completely ignore the positive aspects of this record, King Gizzard's instrumental dexterity is on full display here, with each member contributing to the album's lush sonic landscape. The intricate guitar work, subtle use of keys, and carefully woven percussive elements all contribute to the album's captivating soundscape. The craftsmanship behind the music demonstrates the bands commitment to creating a multi-layered and immersive listening experience. One of the albums notable strengths is its ability to establish a distinct atmosphere. The songs flow well into the next, creating a cohesive sonic journey that washes over the listener like gentle waves. The psychedelic elements are still present, but they've been softened and stretched out, resulting in a more meditative and introspective mood. This shift showcases the willingness to explore different facets of their musical identity. 'Float Along - Fill Your Lungs' offers a serene and contemplative journey into a more relaxed side of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard's sonic spectrum. While it might not resonate with those looking for a more energetic offering, the album succeeds in creating a tranquil space for introspection. Its dreamy ambiance and deliberate pacing make it an ideal companion for moments when the listener craves a calm and immersive sonic escape.

- 7.5/10

Report this review (#2949062)
Posted Saturday, September 2, 2023 | Review Permalink

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