Bret McKenzie of Flight of the Conchords discusses his family, his artistic legacy, and his latest project, "Freak Out City"

Bret McKenzie of Flight of the Conchords discusses his family, his artistic legacy, and his latest project, "Freak Out City"

Bret McKenzie, one half of the beloved musical comedy duo Flight of the Conchords, has unveiled his latest solo project, the album "Freak Out City," under the esteemed label Sub Pop.

The album, McKenzie's second solo venture, follows his 2022 release Songs Without Jokes. The title track, "Freak Out City," is a reflection of McKenzie's father's online research and unusual opinions, offering a humorous yet poignant commentary on the spread of questionable information in today's digital age.

McKenzie, a musician and comedian, is best known for his work with Flight of the Conchords, which he formed with Jemaine Clement in 1998 in Wellington, New Zealand. The duo gained international fame with their HBO show, which aired from 2007 to 2009, and their subsequent songs have become cult classics.

One of McKenzie's most notable achievements is writing the Academy Award-winning song "Man or Muppet" for the 2011 film The Muppets. He has also penned songs for various family films, including Dora and the Lost City of Gold and A Minecraft Movie.

The new album, produced by Lindsay Totty and edited by Olivia Hampton for the audio version and Treye Green for the digital version, delves into McKenzie's personal life. The song "All The Time" is a heartfelt expression of his love for his children.

The album's release comes amidst speculation about the potential return of Flight of the Conchords. With the possibility of new music and a potential tour on the horizon for the next year or two, fans of the duo may be in for a treat.

However, the release of "Freak Out City" was tinged with sadness, as McKenzie's father was unable to attend Christmas due to the vaccination issue, and spent the holiday season alone on his farm. Despite this, McKenzie believes that he will be remembered primarily for his work with Flight of the Conchords.

As McKenzie looks to the future, he imagines his children and grandchildren reminiscing about his work, with an eclectic playlist spanning his solo career and his work with Flight of the Conchords. For now, fans can enjoy "Freak Out City," a thought-provoking and entertaining addition to McKenzie's discography.