The anticipation was palpable as fans filled Forest Hills Stadium for the second night of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard’s two-night stand in Queens. Known for their genre-blending sound and energetic performances, the band was set to deliver another unforgettable show. The evening promised a mix of their signature psych-rock jams, experimental sounds, and a few surprises that would leave the audience buzzing long after the final note.
Full Setlist
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Gaia
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Predator X
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Supercell
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Superbug
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Minimum Brain Size
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Oddlife
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Sense
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The Grim Reaper
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Set
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Extinction
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Wah Wah
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Road Train
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Let Me Mend the Past
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Altered Beast IV
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Ambergris
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Sad Pilot
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Rats in the Sky
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Hypertension
The Energy
From the moment the band took the stage, the energy was electric. Opening with Gaia, the crowd was immediately drawn into the expansive soundscapes that King Gizzard is known for. The seamless transitions between songs kept the momentum high, with each track flowing effortlessly into the next.
The band’s chemistry was evident, with each member feeding off the other’s energy. The rhythm section laid down a solid foundation, allowing the guitarists to explore intricate melodies and textures. The addition of Wah Wah and Road Train brought a touch of their earlier work, much to the delight of longtime fans.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
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“Supercell” & “Superbug”: These tracks showcased the band’s ability to blend heavy riffs with psychedelic elements, creating a sound that was both intense and mesmerizing. The crowd responded enthusiastically, headbanging and dancing in unison.
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“Minimum Brain Size”: A standout moment in the set, this song’s intricate rhythms and layered instrumentation had the audience captivated from start to finish.
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“Sense” & “The Grim Reaper”: These tracks highlighted the band’s versatility, shifting from mellow grooves to intense crescendos. The crowd swayed and sang along, fully immersed in the experience.
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“Extinction”: A rare treat for fans, this song’s expansive arrangement and dynamic shifts showcased the band’s musical prowess and left the audience in awe.
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“Wah Wah” & “Road Train”: These older tracks brought a sense of nostalgia, with fans singing along to every word and relishing the opportunity to hear them live.
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“Sad Pilot” & “Rats in the Sky”: These newer tracks demonstrated the band’s continued evolution, with complex arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics that resonated with the audience.
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“Hypertension”: The encore performance of this high-energy track had the crowd on their feet, dancing and cheering as the band delivered a powerful conclusion to the night.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at Forest Hills Stadium was electric, with fans of all ages coming together to celebrate King Gizzard’s music. The crowd was engaged and enthusiastic, singing along to every song and responding to the band’s interactions with excitement and appreciation.
The band’s interactions with the audience were genuine and heartfelt. They expressed gratitude for the support and shared their excitement about performing in such a historic venue. This connection added an extra layer of warmth to the performance, making the night feel personal and intimate despite the large crowd.
Tiny Quibbles
While the performance was largely flawless, there were a few minor technical issues. At times, the vocals were slightly overpowered by the instruments, making it difficult to catch every lyric. Additionally, the transitions between some songs felt a bit abrupt, though this did little to detract from the overall flow of the set.
Final Thoughts
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard’s performance at Forest Hills Stadium was a testament to their growth as a band and their ability to connect with their audience. The setlist was a perfect blend of new material and fan favorites, showcasing their versatility and depth as musicians. The production was top-notch, and the band’s stage presence was captivating from start to finish.
As the final notes of “Hypertension” echoed through the stadium, it was clear that King Gizzard continues to push the boundaries of modern rock music. Their willingness to experiment and evolve ensures that each performance is a unique and memorable experience for their fans.