King Gizzard EU Tour 2024: Risk & History
- Stu Mackenzie, of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, reflected on feeling small amid the grandeur of the Ancient Theater in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, after the second night of...
- Mackenzie said the residency tour offered a stark contrast to typical tours, allowing the band to explore and connect with each city.
- King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard's latest album, "Phantom Island," their 27th, marks a foray into orchestral arrangements, blending country and Philly soul.
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard redefined touring, opting for residencies across historic European venues. Their recent tour saw the experimental rock band embrace improvisation and connect deeply with fans. This unique approach, a stark contrast to typical tours, allowed them to explore each city while showcasing their evolving sound, even venturing into country and soul influences with their latest album, “phantom Island.” Catch the inside scoop,including the band’s reflections on performing in locations like the Ancient Theater in Plovdiv. News Directory 3 has the details on their journey, from their blend of influences to their focus on audience connection. Discover what’s next for the relentlessly touring band.
King Gizzard and the Lizard wizard Tour Historic European Venues
Updated June 24, 2025
Stu Mackenzie, of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, reflected on feeling small amid the grandeur of the Ancient Theater in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, after the second night of their three-show residency. The experimental rock band’s European tour included unique venues such as the former Lukiškės prison in Vilnius and the Lycabettus hill theatre in Athens.
Mackenzie said the residency tour offered a stark contrast to typical tours, allowing the band to explore and connect with each city. The band, which formed in Melbourne in 2010, has become known for blending psych-rock with metal and krautrock influences. Their relentless touring has drawn comparisons to the Grateful Dead and Phish.
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard’s latest album, “Phantom Island,” their 27th, marks a foray into orchestral arrangements, blending country and Philly soul. The album’s lyrics reflect on modern life, with characters frequently enough observing the world from above.
Mackenzie noted a shift toward connecting with audiences and embracing improvisation. The band doesn’t rehearse, which forces them to create music in real time. He said this approach enhances their connection and allows them to explore their extensive back catalog.
“We’re like tourists on this trip as well,” said Mackenzie. “The contrast between a regular bus tour, where we’re in a different city every night, is pretty stark…But on a tour like this, you actually have a moment to soak it up and breathe, which is rare.”
What’s next
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard are scheduled to tour the United States, the united Kingdom, Europe and Australia.