best king gizzard album

3 min read 20-12-2024

King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard. Just the name conjures images of sprawling psychedelic jams, mind-bending time signatures, and a relentless output that defies categorization. With over 20 studio albums to their name, choosing a "best" is a fool's errand, a subjective battle fought with passion and punctuated by fuzzed-out guitar solos. But that doesn't mean we can't delve into the glorious chaos and try to crown a champion. This isn't about declaring a definitive winner, but about exploring why certain albums resonate so deeply with fans.

Methodology: Why No Single "Best" Exists

Before we even begin to discuss contenders, it's crucial to acknowledge the inherent difficulty of this task. King Gizzard’s discography is incredibly diverse. They seamlessly blend genres, experimenting with garage rock, psychedelia, heavy metal, and even jazz. What constitutes "best" depends entirely on individual preferences. A fan drawn to their heavier material might adore Infest the Rats' Nest, while someone seeking intricate, progressive compositions might champion Nonagon Infinity.

Top Contenders for the King Gizzard Throne:

Several albums consistently appear in "best of" lists and discussions. Let's examine some of the most popular candidates, acknowledging that this is far from exhaustive:

1. Nonagon Infinity (2016): A Progressive Masterpiece

Nonagon Infinity is frequently cited as a pinnacle of King Gizzard's creativity. Its seamless transition between nine interconnected songs creates a hypnotic, immersive listening experience. The album showcases their mastery of complex song structures and progressive rock elements, while retaining their signature energy and raw sound. The cyclical nature of the album, returning to the opening theme, adds to its captivating allure. Its complexity and rewarding nature makes it a favorite for many.

2. Infest the Rats' Nest (2019): Thrash Metal Mayhem

A complete departure from their previous work, Infest the Rats' Nest is a full-throttle thrash metal onslaught. This album surprised many fans, showcasing the band's versatility and willingness to fully embrace a completely different genre. The furious energy and blistering riffs are undeniably captivating, making it a standout for fans of heavy music. Its raw power and unbridled aggression are hard to ignore.

3. Polygondwanaland (2017): A Psychedelic Epic

Polygondwanaland presents a sprawling, psychedelic journey. Its expansive soundscapes and intricate instrumentation are a testament to the band's instrumental prowess. The album’s epic scale and adventurous spirit perfectly capture the band's experimental nature. Many fans appreciate its adventurous nature and sonic exploration.

4. Flying Microtonal Banana (2017): Microtonal Explorations

King Gizzard's foray into microtonal music, Flying Microtonal Banana, is a bold and innovative album. Using microtones – intervals smaller than a semitone – creates a unique and otherworldly soundscape. While not immediately accessible to all, its experimental spirit and groundbreaking sound cement its place in discussions about their best work. It shows the band's willingness to push boundaries and experiment with unconventional sounds.

The Verdict: It's All About Personal Preference

Ultimately, declaring one King Gizzard album definitively "best" is impossible. The band's remarkable consistency and fearless experimentation across genres makes each album a unique and rewarding experience. The "best" album is the one that resonates most deeply with the individual listener. Whether it's the progressive complexity of Nonagon Infinity, the thrash metal fury of Infest the Rats' Nest, the psychedelic exploration of Polygondwanaland, or the microtonal innovation of Flying Microtonal Banana, the beauty lies in the sheer diversity of their incredible discography.

Exploring Further: Other Notable Albums

This exploration barely scratches the surface. Albums like I'm in Your Mind Fuzz, Murder of the Universe, and Fishing for Fishies also deserve mention, each showcasing different facets of the band's multifaceted talent. The best way to discover your personal favorite King Gizzard album? Listen to them all! Their vast catalogue offers a treasure trove of musical exploration, waiting to be unearthed.