February 9, 2023
Indie Rock Picks
Tired of listening to the same old top-40 songs? Try these alternative rock albums from two bands who might be new to you. Nonagon Infinityby King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard“The Concept Album that Never Ends” 
Nonagon Infinity is the album that really put King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard on the map. The Australian-based psychedelic rock group had always defined themselves by making the music they wanted to make, bending and breaking norms to create a catalog of music that only they could, perfectly showcased in 2017’s Nonagon Infinity. A concept album, for those who don’t know, is an album that’s driven by a core idea whose influence can be heard throughout. The “secret” to Nonagon Infinity is hinted at in its name; the album itself is composed of nine tracks, each song transitioning into the next and the last song looping back to the start. It truly is an album that never ends. Musically, the album is active and intense, never lingering in one spot and always keeping things moving. The band had seven members when this was recorded, and as such, there is a lot going on in the soundscape. Motifs and melodies get repeated in new and interesting ways, keeping everything together. Despite the cohesiveness of the album, each song still feels unique and stands out on its own. It’s clear that the band took a lot of time in nearly every aspect of the album, and as a whole is definitely one of King Gizzard’s most defining albums and an album that you should listen to at least twice.
The Slow Rushby Tame Impala
Whether you have a busy schedule or time to spare, there are those free moments in between your tasks. The album, The Slow Rush (2020) by Tame Impala is the type of music that can fill those moments with an opportunity to recharge. Like a breath of fresh air, this psychedelic rock album is filled with synth waves that include energetic songs such as “Breathe Deeper,” and “Is It True.” This 57-minute album blends genres such as electronic, dream pop, and soft rock to provide an overall sound that is perfect for creating the motivation to get through a task. The different moods within this album make it possible to feel both tranquility and inspiration. I recommend listening to this album on the drive home, with friends, or while cleaning.