The album title is a play on the title of the 1968 movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, following their last album, Fifty Shades of Lazy.
Lazy Fifty put out a string of singles before the album release, garnering airplay on radio waves around the country.
Last week they threw a “single release party” at Smash Palace, as a way of putting on a live performance and still adhering to the Covid-19 restrictions.
If an event is classified as a “private social gathering” hosts are allowed to invite up to 100 friends to attend and mingle without masks or seating.
The album was recorded a few months before drummer Ali Sochacki joined the band so producer Haver did the drums.
“I met these guys at the pub of all places,” said Ali.
“I covered rock and roll in the UK but this is Kiwi original, so I could fit in quite easily.”
Joseph Carroll is also a new entrant, brought in to add extra weight to the live shows.
“Joe's fitted right in, his style is awesome. That rhythm he brings really fills out the Lazy experience,” said bassist Ryan Raggett (Ngati Kahungunu ki te Wairoa).
“You need live music. It's like being match fit,” said Athy, referring to the impact of Covid-19 on live shows.
“You can train all summer for your rugby and your first games are horrendous. But by your sixth game you're starting on a better footing. You can practise your ass off but it's not like playing live.”
The problem with cancellations is everyone tries to rebook on the same date, Athy said.
“Everyone wants February and March next year because everyone's been cancelled.”
Luckily the band still have a few gigs up their sleeves to keep them sharp.
The album, 2021: A Lazy Odyssey, is available to stream on all major platforms.
