Flight of the Conchords - The Distant Future

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Internet and HBO phenoms Flight of the Conchords (New Zealand's fourth most popular folk parody duo) have released their first official product to the American public, the criminally short The Distant Future EP. Their comedy duo nature coupled with their cult smash HBO series has caused Flight of Conchords to draw obvious comparisons to Tenacious D, comparisons that are fairly unjustified. Whereas "The D" derive their comedy from the volume of Jack Black's voice, Flight of the Conchords takes a more cerebral, and sometimes self-deprecating approach to musical comedy.

The Distant Future is a hodgepodge of live and studio cuts seemingly tossed together to satisfy the group's growing rabid fan base while the duo prepares a proper full length release. This, however, does not detract from the brilliance of the songs herein. Five of the six cuts on this 22 minute release are true comedy gems, highlighted by the studio version of the internet smash "Business Time." (You've probably seen them perform this on any number of late night talk shows. If not, do yourself a service and YouTube this song. You will laugh your butt off.) The only sour grape in the bunch is the nominally funny "I'm Not Crying."

Other highlights of the set include "The Most Beautiful Girl In The Room" where the object of the Conchords' affection is handed the largest platter of backhanded compliments ever put to a love song. "Banter" is a brilliant and partially improvised Steve Martin style sendup of standup comedy and musical act cliché. "Robots" is a hilarious narrative about the distant future, (the year 2000) when robots have replaced humanity at the top of the food chain.

Overall the Flight of the Conchords have proven themselves to be masters of language, timing and interaction, both with each other and their audience. All of this adds up to a wonderful release, sure to keep many begging for more. The tragically short run time keeps this release from a near perfect score, but for the price, it is still a bargain.

Review by Robert Conklin

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The Distant Future