In a world where solo projects often feel like mere side notes to a band’s legacy, Michael "Cavs" Cavanagh is making a bold statement. As the drummer of the renowned psychedelic rock band King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Cavanagh is branching out with his second solo LP, 'Sojourn,' set to drop on April 24 under Gizzard's p(doom) label. The album promises a rich tapestry of sound that draws from a diverse range of influences, making it one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Today, Cavanagh unveiled the album’s second single, "First Light," further immersing listeners into the bespoke sonic universe he has crafted. The accompanying video, directed by Jackson Devereux, is a surreal visual journey that sees Cavanagh transform into a tree, navigating the complexities of his newfound identity. The clip is more than just a visual spectacle; it serves as a metaphor for growth and transformation, mirroring the evolution of his music. The lead single, "Candiru," already set the stage for 'Sojourn,' showcasing an adventurous spirit and a willingness to explore unconventional musical landscapes. With "First Light," Cavanagh continues this exploration, hinting at a narrative thread that ties the entire album together. In a recent Zoom interview with SPIN, he described how he and co-producer Jim Rindfleish developed an "Indiana Jones-style" storyline to unify the record. This narrative approach not only enhances the listening experience but allows for a wide variety of styles and motifs to flourish throughout the album. Musically, 'Sojourn' is an instrumental work that features an impressive lineup of Australian musicians, including Adam Halliwell on flute and guitar, Siwei Wong on harp, and Gizzard’s own Joey Walker on bass. This collaboration is bound to deliver a rich, layered sound that reflects the eclecticism of Cavanagh's influences, which he cites as some of the great drummers including Can's Jaki Liebezeit and Billy Cobham. The album opens with the sparkling "Victoria Amazonica," which conjures images of an expedition into uncharted territory. Cavanagh’s drumming is both intricate and fluid, setting a tone that feels both adventurous and introspective. Following this is "Emerald Nile," which sounds like a soundtrack to bustling Middle Eastern bazaars, showcasing Cavanagh’s ability to weave cultural elements into his music. Tracks like "Death Bat" exhibit more traditional rock influences with distorted guitars and a pulsating bass line, proving Cavanagh can straddle genres with ease. Meanwhile, "Paititi" leans into yacht rock vibes, a refreshing nod to an entirely different era. The penultimate track, "The Seeker," shines with jazzy elegance, a testament to Cavanagh's versatility as both a performer and composer. While Cavanagh's solo work is thriving, fans of King Gizzard are left wondering about the band's future. With no planned live shows for 2023 and only the sophomore edition of the Field of Vision festival scheduled for 2026 in Buena Vista, Colorado, anticipation is building for their next musical endeavor. Cavanagh hinted that new music is bubbling beneath the surface, suggesting that the band hasn't been idle during this hiatus. Cavanagh's time away from the stage has evidently allowed him to dig deeper into his creative well, providing the space to cultivate projects like 'Sojourn.' With the music scene still recovering post-pandemic, artists are exploring new avenues and pushing boundaries, and Cavanagh’s journey is a perfect example of that ethos. As the April release date approaches, expectations are high for 'Sojourn.' With its complex narrative, diverse musical styles, and Cavanagh's distinct artistry, fans are likely to find a refreshing and engaging experience that resonates well beyond a casual listen. Michael "Cavs" Cavanagh is not just a drummer for King Gizzard; he’s an artist in his own right, ready to take listeners on a captivating journey through his colorful soundscape. With the second single now out, it’s clear that 'Sojourn' is shaping up to be one of the standout releases of 2023. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an extraordinary exploration of sound.