Album review overview: Al Stewart, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and more
Dozens of new albums arrive at Maxazine’s editorial staff every week. There are way too many to listen to them all, let alone review them. It ensures that too many albums are left behind. And that’s a shame. That is why today we post an overview of albums that arrive at the editors in short reviews.
Al Stewart & The Empty Pockets – Live
The live album “Al Stewart & The Empty Pockets – Live” captures the magic of Al Stewart’s performance on May 2, 2024, at The Birchmere. The album blends Stewart’s timeless folk rock with the energetic accompaniment of The Empty Pockets, providing a fresh reinterpretation of his classics. It offers an immersive journey through Stewart’s impressive career, with tracks like “Year Of The Cat” and “Time Passages” still sounding as powerful as ever. The Empty Pockets add harmonious background vocals and lively instrumentation, enhancing the depth and richness of the live performances. Stewart’s distinctive voice and refined guitar playing are beautifully showcased, supported by the dynamic sounds of The Empty Pockets. This live album not only captures nostalgia but also gives a refreshing twist to Stewart’s music, making it a pleasure for both new listeners and seasoned fans. An absolute must for fans of classic folk rock. (Jan Vranken) (6/10) (Wallaby Trails Records)
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Flight B741
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard are known for their continuous musical experimentation, and with “Flight B741,” they add another new genre to their repertoire. This time, the Australian band delves into the world of ’70s southern rock, with clear influences from bands like ZZ Top and Molly Hatchet. The album opens with “Mirage City,” a track full of harmonies, pedal steel, and a constant guitar solo in the background, setting the tone for the rest of the record. With tracks such as the energetic “Antarctica,” the bluesy “Le Risque,” and the exuberant “Hog Calling Contest,” the band showcases their playful and creative side. Despite the potential for falling into an imitation of larger artists, the band’s chemistry and spontaneous approach give the genre a fresh twist. While the album may not be for everyone, the carefree atmosphere and enjoyable energy that permeates the tracks are highlights. “Flight B741” deserves a solid 7 out of 10. (Anton Dupont) (7/10) (pdoom records)
Thee Marloes – Perak
“Perak,” the debut album from Thee Marloes, brings a refreshing mix of retro soul, jazz, and modern influences from the Indonesian city of Surabaya to the world. The band displays a remarkable sense of musical maturity and originality, especially for a new group. From the first track “I Know,” the trio establishes a unique sound, with cinematic soundscapes and influences from classic soul and Motown. Notable tracks like “Midnight Hotline” with its danceable rhythms and vintage brass, and “Summer” with its summery, surf rock vibes, showcase the band’s versatility. The powerful voice of Natassya Sianturi is the heart of the album, while the interplay between English and Indonesian lyrics creates a dynamic listening experience. Although some tracks lean towards repetition, Thee Marloes manages to find an impressive balance between paying homage to past soul and adding a contemporary twist with “Perak.” A solid debut that earns a rating of 7 out of 10. (Jan Vranken) (7/10) (Big Crown Records)
Twin Atlantic – Meltdown
On “Meltdown,” Twin Atlantic returns to their roots, a welcome development after the experiments of their recent albums. Frontman Sam McTrusty recently revealed that he was once advised to swap his Scottish accent for an American sound to increase their appeal. Thankfully, he ignored that advice, as evidenced by the beautiful closing track “Snow In Texas.” The album reminds us of what originally attracted fans: big, anthemic tracks with catchy choruses, driven by Sam’s charismatic vocals. Songs like “Stuck In A Car With You” and “Sorry” showcase the band at their best, with energetic guitars and engaging lyrics. Although “Meltdown” demonstrates the band’s maturity and returns to their strongest traits, the album sometimes lacks the sharpness and adventurous spirit that made earlier works so compelling. Still, it offers a solid but safe listening experience. The result is a respectable 6 out of 10. (Anton Dupont) (6/10) (Staple Edit)
Asake – Lungu Boy
Asake, a prominent figure in the African hip-hop scene, releases his third studio album, “Lungu Boy.” Referring to the term ‘lungu,’ a place of personal significance and refuge in Nigeria, Asake emphasizes his roots and his rise from Lagos to international fame. Expectations were high following his previous successes, and Asake delivered another energetic and versatile album. “Lungu Boy” features collaborations with major names like Wizkid, Travis Scott, and Stormzy, highlighting his ambition to reach a global audience. Musically, the album offers a mix of Afropop, neo-fuji, and urban influences, with production from top names like P.Priime and Sarz. While the production and party vibe is impressive, the album lacks the sharpness and personal depth of his debut “Mr. Money With The Vibes” and the focused character of its follow-up “Work Of Art.” “Lungu Boy” sometimes feels less focused and fails to make the same impact. Despite this, it is a solid album that deserves a rating of 7 out of 10. (Elodie Renard) (7/10) (YBNL Nation Empire)
