Michael Cavanagh is widely revered as the relentless engine behind the psychedelic powerhouse King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, but his latest venture sees him trading the frantic energy of the Gizzverse for something altogether more atmospheric. Trading his sticks for a conductor’s baton, Cavanagh has announced his second solo LP, 'Sojourn', arriving April 24, 2026, via p(doom) records.
While his 2021 self-titled debut was a visceral, percussion-only affair, Sojourn finds CAVS evolving into a composer and bandleader. The 10-track instrumental album marks a departure from his usual high-octane output, leaning into the lush textures of spiritual jazz, the steady pulses of Krautrock, and the experimental edges of progressive rock.
To introduce the project, CAVS has dropped the lead single ‘Candiru’, paired with a striking music video directed by Hayden Somerville. The track serves as a gateway into the album’s "wordless narrative," which co-producer Jim Rindfleish (of Melbourne fusion outfit Mildlife) describes as a vivid, sensory expedition.
“'Sojourn' began as a sample-based beat tape that Cavs had been chipping away at between Gizz commitments,” Rindfleish explains. “Even in its demo form, the material had a distinctly visual quality. We kept returning to the image of waking up on an uncharted island, covered in dense jungles, waterfalls and glittering caves. As that vision developed, the material began to resemble the forms of various mystical and undiscovered fauna and flora.”
To bring this tropical dreamscape to life, Cavanagh assembled an ensemble of Melbourne’s finest, including Adam Halliwell on flute, Siwei Wong on harp, and Gizz bandmate Joey Walker on bass. The result is a "groove" concept album that prioritises feel and flow over technical showmanship.
“Sojourn is the trek across that uncharted land,” Rindfleish continues. “In many ways, it’s literally uncharted territory for Cavs, as this is his debut release as a bandleader and arranger. It is an ode to our favourite drummer/bandleaders throughout 60’s, 70’s and 80’s (Billy Cobham, Harvey Mason, Tony Williams, Tony Allen, etc.) and is at its core, a ‘Groove’ concept album, best listened to in one continuous sitting.”
Environmentally conscious fans can also pick up a limited edition ‘Clear Orange’ LP, pressed on recyclable PET plastic. ‘Candiru’ is available to stream now on all major platforms. You can follow CAVS on Instagram for updates on upcoming live performances.
