The Lounge Lizards

The Profile

The Lounge Lizards are an American jazz group formed in New York City in 1978 by saxophonist John Lurie. Associated with the no wave scene, they released influential albums including The Lounge Lizards (1981), No Pain for Cakes (1987), Voice of Chunk (1989), and Queen of All Ears (1998).

Reviews highlight the group’s playful, label-defying approach and strong musicianship. Members referenced include John and Evan Lurie, Arto Lindsay, Marc Ribot, Roy Nathanson, Curtis Fowlkes, Anton Fier, and Steve Piccolo. Collaborations with filmmakers and musicians (including Tom Waits) are noted, as is the band’s humor and tight ensemble cohesion.

Three upbeat reviews celebrate The Lounge Lizards’ playful, genre-dodging jazz and sharp musicianship. John Lurie’s sax leads a rotating cast including Evan Lurie, Arto Lindsay, and Marc Ribot. Albums covered include the 1981 debut, No Pain for Cakes (1987), and Voice of Chunk (1989). The band’s humor, cohesion, and no-wave roots are recurrent themes.