12 BAR BRUISE

'12 Bar Bruise' is the debut album by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, a wild and unapologetically raw journey into the heart of garage rock and lo-fi psychedelia. Released in 2012, it serves as an introduction to the band's distinctive sound and their fearless approach to experimentation. While it may not be their most refined work, it holds an undeniable charm that captures the essence of their early creative energy. The album's standout feature is its unapologetic rawness, thanks to the unusual way this was recorded with 4 iPhones placed in corners around a garage. This unrefined quality lends the album a unique charm, evoking the atmosphere of a sweaty underground show, it's a testament to the bands ability to channel their energy directly into the recording, making for a visceral listening experience. The lo-fi production quality adds to the album's distinct character. While some may find the rawness off-putting, it ultimately contributes to the album's authentic DIY aesthetic. The deliberately unpolished sound enhances the bands gritty charisma, making it feel like an intimate live performance captured in a garage, much like early records from The Strokes. '12 Bar Bruise' also hints at the eclectic musical influences that would later become a hallmark of the bands discography. From the bluesy riffs of the title track, to the surf rock vibes of "Footy Footy," the album showcases their willingness to dip into various genres while maintaining their signature distorted edge. This diversity foreshadows the bands future forays into progressive rock, psychedelic explorations, folk rock, and beyond. Not to say it is perfect by any means, the album isn't without its shortcomings. The lo-fi production, while adding character, also occasionally muddles the intricate instrumentation and vocal nuances, making some tracks feel underdeveloped. It's clear that '12 Bar Bruise' is a product of the bands early days when they were still finding their musical identity and sound. It succeeds in creating a distinctive atmosphere that draws listeners into its world. The title track, with its bluesy undertones and catchy hooks, encapsulates the album's essence perfectly. Other tracks like "Cut Throat Boogie" showcase the bands ability to craft infectious and memorable tunes that stick in your mind. I thought it was a great debut that encapsulates the raw energy and unfiltered creativity of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard. While it may not be their most polished or sophisticated work, it's a testament to their fearless approach to music making and their willingness to embrace imperfections. Fans of garage rock, lo-fi, and those curious about the bands beginnings will find this album to be a captivating snapshot of a group on the cusp of something truly remarkable.

- 8/10