Os Mutantes “Zzyzx” 2020. Limited edition green vinyl. This past Monday evening we had the amazing opportunity to see the legendary Brazilian pscych-rock group play at Cactus Club, a tiny (and awesome) venue just minutes from our house. While only one original member, guitarist/vocalist Sergio Dias, performed – and his voice was giving out a bit – it was an incredible performance.

Sergio Dias of Os Mutantes at Cactus Club

Os Mutantes played a set that mixed newer songs, like on this latest release of their 55 year career, plus tracks from their earlier releases, including several from their stunning s/t debut from 1968. My friend Blaine wrote a great review for Shepherd Express here.  Zzyzx is definitely less psychedelic overall than their OG material, with a mix of sounds that span country/Americana to blues to 60’s pop. My top tracks include the glammy, dreamy “The Last Silver Bird” and the two Bowie/Beatles-esque songs “Mutant’s Lonely Night” and “Window Mirrors.” Also pretty good are the album opener and jangly Americana “Beyond” and “We Love You,” a bluesy rocker. I’m less excited about the 60’s poppy “Candy” and the title track “Zzyzx” which is a kind of cheesy, swingy show tune with country swing.