REVIEW: Goatzilla – ‘ALIEN NATION’

When they first broke through with their brilliant debut LP ‘Muthafukasaurus’ back in 2019, Australian outfit Goatzilla established themselves as one of the more exciting names emerging on the classic rock revivalist scene. As a self-adorned “Atomic Mutant Goatpunk” band, the group have earned a strong reputation for harking back to those driven riffs and euphoric choruses of the 1980s, and rebranding them for a modern ear. And after a wave of impactful offerings throughout these last few months, they are now back once again to deliver their long-awaited sophomore LP ‘ALIEN NATION’, a record that rekindles that explosive spirit they are known for.

Much like what their initial material leant into, ‘ALIEN NATION’ is a balls-to-the-wall rock album, brimming with soaring textures and singalong vocals at every turn. Originally recorded back within the COVID lockdowns, the time and patience it took to bring this new offering together is clearly evident in its vibrant production and expansive direction. Paying homage to the stadium rock titans that they have a strong affinity for, ‘ALIEN NATION’ sees them returning to the fold with some seriously fun and electrifying delights here.

It may have taken longer than expected to come together, but ‘ALIEN NATION’ was certainly worth the wait for any classic rock fans out there. Delivering this uncompromising pace across its nine tracks, Goatzilla continue their pursuit as one of the more enjoyable names emerging from the underground right now.