Concert Review: King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard with King Stingray at The Criterion in OKC
On November 12, 2024, Oklahoma City’s The Criterion was transformed into a kaleidoscopic soundscape, courtesy of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and their electrifying opening act, King Stingray. This double bill brought the vibrant, genre-blending sounds of Australia to the heart of OKC, and fans were treated to an exhilarating night of music that spanned rock, psych, and surf with a healthy dose of unpredictability.
King Stingray kicked things off, bringing their unique fusion of surf rock, funk, and traditional Indigenous Australian influences to the stage. The Arnhem Land-based band instantly connected with the crowd, even those unfamiliar with their music, thanks to a sound both fresh and rooted in tradition. The band’s grooves and upbeat energy set a lively tone for the evening, showcasing their catchy rhythms, melodic guitar work, and distinct use of the Yidaki (didgeridoo), which added a powerful and culturally rich element to their performance.
As the lights dimmed and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard took the stage, the crowd’s energy reached a new high. Known for their relentless touring and constantly evolving sound, the band delivered a dynamic set that showcased their range, from heavy, riff-driven rock to experimental, trippy jams. True to their style, they moved seamlessly between different tempos and genres, blending psychedelic rock, metal, and microtonal scales in ways only they can. Each song felt like its own adventure, with wild tempo changes and sonic textures that took the audience on a captivating journey.
While the setlist itself ranged across their extensive discography, King Gizzard avoided predictable choices, opting instead to keep fans on their toes with deep cuts and experimental jams that highlighted their technical skill and fearless creativity. The members played with impressive cohesion, even as they launched into some of their most chaotic and intricate arrangements. The drums laid down heavy, syncopated rhythms that anchored the performance, while the guitars and keys layered rich, psychedelic textures over top.
With a closing jam that built to a powerful crescendo, King Gizzard left the crowd buzzing, proving once again why they’re one of the most exciting and unpredictable live acts today. Both bands made a lasting impression on OKC fans, showcasing the diverse sounds coming out of Australia’s music scene. For those in attendance, it was a night of pure musical immersion—one they’ll be talking about for a long time.
