France’s own prog-rock trio, LIZZARD, is back with their fifth full-length album, Mesh, released via Pelagic Records. This album captures the vibrant spirit of the late ’90s post-punk and art-rock scenes, breathing new life into that creative energy that has defined their sound for over a decade.
The band also dropped their new single, “Mad Hatters,” a poignant track that critiques those in power as society stands on the brink of chaos. The song features soothing polyrhythms and emotive melodies, tackling urgent questions while channeling the raw power of that era into something both empowering and inspiring.
Mesh is available on CD, LP, and digital formats. Find orders at THIS LOCATION.
LIZZARD formed in 2006, with drummer Katy Elwell, guitarist/vocalist Mat Ricou, and bassist Will Knox discovering a shared vision and musical influences right from the start. They set out to create a contemporary rock sound that connects with listeners emotionally while pushing them to think critically. The result? An intense, hook-heavy sound that surpasses their individual talents.
After eighteen years, four studio albums, and countless tours with heavyweights like Gojira, ORK (featuring members of King Crimson and Porcupine Tree), The Pineapple Thief, and Soen, LIZZARD returns with Mesh. This album is a culmination of their dynamic live energy, long suppressed by the challenges of recent years, combined with the precise production expertise of their longtime collaborator, producer Peter Junge.
LIZZARD’s journey began with their self-produced mini-album, Venus, in 2007, which quickly garnered attention in the progressive rock community. Following this underground success, they opened for notable acts like Gojira and Punish Yourself in France. Their collaboration with producer Rhys Fulber led to their debut album, Out of Reach, in 2012, establishing them as a powerful force in the prog-rock scene.
Since then, LIZZARD has shared the stage with stoner-metal icons High On Fire and legendary fusion drummer Terry Bozzio. Their 2014 live-recorded sophomore album, Majestic, showcased their exceptional musicianship, marking a darker and deeper evolution in their sound. After a series of shows across Europe and the U.S., they returned to the studio for 2018’s Shift, once again teaming up with Junge.
The global pandemic in 2020 paused their momentum, but the band persevered, working on their fourth album, Eroded, which was released in 2021. Although they initially missed the thrill of live performances, they eventually hit the road with Eroded, supporting Soen and embarking on their headline tour in Spring 2023. During lockdown, they creatively adapted by producing a live short film of Eroded, performed in isolation.
This creative process deeply influenced the trio. Now, with Mesh, recorded in an abandoned factory that serves as their artistic hub, LIZZARD unleashes their live sound with a polished studio finish. The album explores themes of duality and control, questioning our identities behind the façades we construct to mask our true emotions and desires.
For fans of Tool, King Crimson, Karnivool, and more, Mesh is a must-listen. Get ready to dive into the intricate world of LIZZARD and experience the magic of their latest offering.
Watch LIZZARD’s previously released video for “The Beholder” and “Black Sheep”
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