Meta Description: Discover the magic of “Ill Times” in our album review. Ambrose Kenny-Smith and Jay Watson bring a blend of funk, psychedelic, and soul influences to this must-listen collaboration.
Ill Times Album Review: Ambrose Kenny-Smith and Jay Watson’s Psychedelic Collaboration
If you’ve ever wondered how King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard find time to make so many albums, band member Ambrose Kenny-Smith isn’t here to give you an answer. But his new project, “Ill Times,” created with Jay Watson (known for GUM, Pond, and as a touring member of Tame Impala), will leave you with even more questions. How do these Australian rockers manage to find time for side projects and consistently produce high-quality music?
A Collaboration Born from Friendship
“Ill Times” is a collaboration between Kenny-Smith and Watson, who have been friends for several years. Their bands have crossed paths multiple times, making this album a natural progression. Both artists are prominent members of Australia’s psychedelic scene, and their combined efforts on “Ill Times” showcase their musical synergy.
Signature Sounds and Soulful Vocals
The album features traces of both artists’ projects, with Kenny-Smith’s signature harmonica, often heard in King Gizzard, finding a home on “Ill Times.” This record allows Kenny-Smith to showcase his soulful voice, blending funk, psychedelic, and soul influences.
“Ill Times” is upbeat and danceable, though some tracks are more memorable than others. While Kenny-Smith and Watson remain loyal to the sounds that have earned them respect, pushing the envelope a bit more could have elevated the album further.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
‘Dud’: The album opens with a touching tribute to Kenny-Smith’s late father, Broderick Smith. Despite its somber inspiration, the song is upbeat, ending with the bittersweet lines, “Father, I bid you adieu/ Somewhere up there singing the blues/ Never out of tune.” [3.5/5]
‘Ill Times’: Punchy and psychedelic, the track opens with spacey synths, fuzzy guitars, and rolling drums, building up to Kenny-Smith’s strong vocals. [3.5/5]
‘Minor Setback’: This track features a swinging bassline, groovy drums, and warped guitars, reminiscent of early 2010s neo-psychedelic sound. [3.5/5]
‘Fool For You’: A soulful cover of The Impressions’ classic, infused with a modern garage-psych touch. [4/5]
‘Resilience’: Kenny-Smith’s harmonica shines on this funk-laden track, radiating warmth. [4/5]
‘Powertrippn’: Begins heavy but mellows into a chilled number with a hazy hip-hop beat. Enjoyable but not the most memorable. [3/5]
‘Old Transistor Radio’: Similar to other tracks, it features fuzzy guitars and hip-hop beats but lacks innovation. Still solid on its own. [3/5]
‘Emu Rock’: Short and sweet, with harmonica and keys shining, and a country-esque beat. [3.5/5]
‘Marionette’: Kenny-Smith’s powerful voice, accompanied by major piano keys, gives the song a gospel-like quality. [3/5]
‘The Gloater’: Ends the album with a hopeful sound, building into a fun, bass-heavy conclusion. [3.5/5]
Conclusion
“Ill Times” offers much to discover, from the grooves of ‘Minor Setback’ to their unique take on ‘Fool For You.’ With lyrics about overcoming grief and hard times, Kenny-Smith and Watson have created a record full of passion and energy. Fans of neo-psychedelia with a penchant for ’70s rock will find this album a worthwhile listen.
