ALBUM REVIEW: Ice, Death, Planets, Lungs, Mushrooms And Lava

King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard - Ice, Death, Planets, Lungs, Mushrooms And Lava

King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard’s discography is no stranger to reminding us all of our impending doom of ecological disaster and this newest release is no different. Ice, Death, Planets, Lungs, Mushrooms And Lava is a kaleidoscopic blend of bouncy, fun tunes. 

The opening track, “Mycelium,” is an upbeat blend of woodwinds and a funky guitar tune. I didn’t have an opportunity to listen to the singles before I sat down to listen to IDPLMAL but this did NOT disappoint. It’s a fun track about happy lil’ mushrooms chowin’ down on some decaying corpses. Appetizing! 

“Ice V” and “Iron Lung,” the two singles released before IDPLMAL, are phenomenal as well. “Ice V” goes full King Crimson mode. It’s nearly impossible to not groove to this track and it manages to get even better within the context of the album. “Iron Lung” is an incredibly fun song that will make you have your own little personal jam session when you listen to it. The psychedelic guitar riffs and fast pace of the entire song makes it a wild listen from start to finish. 

“Magma” is one of the fuzzier tracks in IDPLMAL. Its subdued groove isn’t out of place however. It’s lush with a killer guitar riff and energetic drums that bring an exciting end to the track. “Lava” is “Magma”’s much more explosive brother. “Lava” erupts (pun intended) into a powerful chant, echoey backing vocals, and a ritualistic drum beat. Opening with a whirlwind of cymbals and woodwinds is a sonic experience in itself. It’s undoubtedly one of my favorite tracks on the entire record.

“Hell’s Itch” is a journey. The 13 minute track doesn’t overstay its welcome despite being the longest song on the entire album. The visceral imagery of the lyrics are enough to check out this song in its entirety in my opinion, even though I can admit this track is definitely not for everyone.  

This album closes on “Gliese 710,” a grandiose close to a spectacular album. I personally really hate when artists put a big bang at the end of their albums but King Gizz did it well here. The track feels like you’re leaving this planet that the band had just crafted in the past hour you were listening to the album. 

In a word, IDPLMAL is mesmerizing and definitely warrants a listen. Even within their extensive discography, this release remains a fresh and unique listening experience for King Gizz. Music nerds will definitely enjoy this album so if that’s you (which it probably is considering you’re subscribed to the KXSC newsletter), take a listen. 

- Ziiiiiii 

RIYL: King Crimson, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets
Recommended Tracks: “Mycelium” “Ice V” “Lava” “Iron Lung”
FCC: Explicit—"Magma" “Hell’s Itch”