King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard Microtonal Banana
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, an Australian psychedelic rock band, released their album "Flying Microtonal Banana" on February 24, 2017. The album explores the use of microtonality, a musical tuning system that uses intervals smaller than the Western standard tuning system. The band experimented with new soundscapes, instrumentation, and lyrics to create a truly unique listening experience for their fans.
What is microtonality?
Microtonality is a musical tuning system that uses intervals smaller than the Western standard tuning system. The Western standard tuning system divides an octave into 12 equal parts, which are called half-steps or semitones. In microtonal music, the octave is divided into more than 12 equal parts. This allows for a wider range of musical expression and diversity in the sounds produced.
Microtonality has been used by various musicians over the years, including composers like Charles Ives and Harry Partch. It is often associated with non-Western music traditions and has been used in music from India, the Middle East, and other parts of the world for centuries.
The making of "Flying Microtonal Banana"
The making of "Flying Microtonal Banana" started when the band's frontman, Stu Mackenzie, got a custom-made guitar that was modified to play microtonal notes. This inspired the band to experiment with microtonal music and make an album using this tuning system.
The band used a variety of instruments on the album, including basses, drums, keyboards, and more. They also used a variety of microtonal instruments, such as the Turkish bağlama and the zurna. The album has a distinctive Middle Eastern vibe and features lyrics that explore themes related to environmentalism, the apocalypse, and other psychedelic concepts.
The band recorded the album in their own studio in Melbourne, Australia. They used analog recording techniques to capture the warmth and organic feel of their music. They also worked with an outside producer, Casey Hartnett, to help them achieve the sound they wanted.
The reception of "Flying Microtonal Banana"
"Flying Microtonal Banana" received critical acclaim upon its release. Pitchfork gave it an 8.0 rating and called it "their most fully-realized album to date." Rolling Stone gave it a 3.5-star rating, saying that the album "sparkles with a newfound sense of focus and depth." The album was also nominated for Best Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Album at the 2017 ARIA Awards.
The album's success helped to solidify King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard's reputation as one of the most innovative and experimental bands around. The band continued to explore different musical styles and themes on their subsequent albums, cementing their legacy as a truly unique and boundary-pushing band.
In conclusion
"Flying Microtonal Banana" is a must-listen album for anyone interested in experimental music and boundary-pushing artists. The album's use of microtonality, Middle Eastern-inspired instrumentation, and psychedelic lyrics make it a truly unique listening experience that will transport you to another world.