Evil Man

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard's song 'Evil Man' delves into the dark and tragic history of cultural clashes and religious imposition during the 19th century. Set in 1864, the song narrates the story of Miguel, a young Yavapai-Apache who witnesses the brutal arrival of American settlers in his homeland. The Americans, embroiled in their own Civil War, extend their reach to the desert lands, bringing with them not just weapons but also a leather-bound book with a cross, symbolizing the imposition of Christianity on indigenous peoples.

The song paints a vivid picture of the violence and hypocrisy of the settlers, particularly focusing on a man who commits atrocities in the name of a God who would repulse him. This 'evil man' represents the broader theme of religious and cultural imperialism, where the invaders justify their brutal actions through a distorted sense of divine mission. Miguel's personal tragedy unfolds as he is attacked, rendered unconscious, and later spared only because of his blue eyes, a sign of his mixed heritage. This twist of fate forces him back into a world he had once left, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence and loss in his life.

'Evil Man' is a poignant commentary on the destructive impact of colonization and the forced assimilation of indigenous peoples. The song's narrative structure and historical context serve to underscore the enduring scars left by such encounters. King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard use their psychedelic rock style to amplify the emotional weight of the story, making it not just a historical recount but a powerful reflection on the human cost of cultural and religious domination.