King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard - Eyes Like The Sky (LP) - 45RPM Orange Vinyl

"Eyes Like the Sky" is the second studio album by the Australian psychedelic rock band King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard. Released on February 22, 2013, the album marks a significant departure from the band's debut album, "12 Bar Bruise," showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres and storytelling techniques.

The album is often described as a "spaghetti western audiobook" and features narration by Broderick Smith, the father of the band's harmonica player, Ambrose Kenny-Smith. Broderick Smith's deep, gravelly voice lends an authentic Western feel to the album, which is set in the American frontier and tells a series of interconnected stories about outlaws, Native Americans, and gunfights.

Musically, "Eyes Like the Sky" is heavily influenced by Western film scores, particularly those composed by Ennio Morricone. The band employs a range of instruments and sound effects to create an atmospheric and immersive listening experience. The use of twangy guitars, harmonicas, and percussion evokes the dusty, desolate landscapes of the Wild West, while the occasional bursts of gunfire and galloping horses add to the album's cinematic quality.

The album opens with the title track, "Eyes Like the Sky," which sets the tone for the rest of the record. Broderick Smith's narration introduces the listener to the central character, a young boy named Sonora, who is taken in by a group of Native Americans after his family is killed by outlaws. The story unfolds over the course of the album, with each track adding new layers to the narrative.

Tracks like "Year of Our Lord" and "The Raid" are particularly effective in building tension and advancing the plot. The former describes a brutal attack on a Native American village, while the latter follows a group of outlaws as they plan and execute a daring heist. The band's ability to create vivid, cinematic soundscapes is on full display here, with each track feeling like a scene from a Western film.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Dust in the Wind," which features a haunting melody and evocative lyrics that capture the sense of loss and longing that permeates the album. The track's sparse instrumentation and Broderick Smith's emotive narration make it one of the most memorable moments on the record.

Another highlight is "Fort Whipple," which tells the story of a group of soldiers stationed at a remote outpost. The track's driving rhythm and tense atmosphere perfectly capture the sense of isolation and danger faced by the soldiers, and the band's use of sound effects, such as the distant howl of wolves, adds to the track's immersive quality.

Overall, "Eyes Like the Sky" is a bold and ambitious album that showcases King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard's willingness to push the boundaries of their sound. The band's ability to blend elements of Western film scores with their own unique style results in a truly original and captivating listening experience. While the album's narrative-driven approach may not appeal to all listeners, those who appreciate storytelling and atmospheric music will find much to enjoy here.

In conclusion, "Eyes Like the Sky" is a testament to King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard's creativity and versatility. The album's unique concept, combined with the band's skillful musicianship and Broderick Smith's compelling narration, makes it a standout release in their discography. Whether you're a fan of Westerns, psychedelic rock, or simply looking for something different, "Eyes Like the Sky" is an album worth exploring.