Flight of the Conchords created a sensation with their first season in 2007 (now available on DVD), and now they're back with more. Season 2 is making its world premiere on HBO on January 18. If it's been a while since you watched season 1, you should catch up with the DVD set, but in the meantime, here's a quick breakdown of the show's history and the first season.
How it All Began
The Conchords got together in 1998 when Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement - mates at University - decided they needed a way to improve their then poor guitar skills. They spent a few years touring their live show before ending up with a BBC-Radio series. They have released a couple of albums - Folk the World, Flight of the Conchords, and The Distant Future (EP) - and of course, they now have their own series on HBO.
The Cast and Characters
- Bret McKenzie - Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Bret McKenzie is described by his fictional band manager Murray as, "the shy, confident one." Bret is the more reserved of the Conchords, and in the show is portrayed as very naïve, good-intentioned, and innocent. His "thing" is quitting the band, which he has done many times already. He wears funny sweatshirts and stripy sweaters. He dances when he gets angry.
- Jemaine Clement - Also a native New Zealander, Jemaine Clement is the more outgoing, self-assured of the Conchords. He is a self-described ladies man, although he has yet to really show for it. His "thing" is probably getting angry and/or hurt every time Bret quits the band, and trying to make Bret angry and/or sad as a result. He wears leather suits and business socks. He's known for his distinct look, complete with black-rimmed specs.
- Rhys Darby - Rhys is a comedian, also hailing from New Zealand, who plays Murray Hewitt, the Conchords' band manager/employee of the New Zealand consulate. Rather than process applications for passports, Murray holds band meetings in his office and books the Conchords gigs at hotels, airports, and other inconvenient locations. One thing can be said about Murray: he never gives up.
- Kristen Schaal - Kristen is a comedian and improv artist from the States who plays the Conchords' #1 (and potentially their only) fan. She enjoys "accidentally" running into Bret and Jemaine when they are on their way out, and leading the Flight of the Conchords fan club. She is not keen on new fans, or any girl who looks at either of the Conchords, for that matter.
Season 2
Based on the television previews, it looks like season 2 of Flight of the Conchords will offer much of the same awkward comedy and inappropriate musical interlude as the first. A sneak peek at the premiere episode starts with Bret and Jemaine at yet another band meeting with Murray, but this time, he's made it big with the Crazy Dogs (the band comprised of the rejected "extra" Conchords from the end of season 1).
But the Conchords are sick of Murray's poor management, because it's left them poor, and it's left poor Bret with only one shoe. Jemaine and Bret think it might be time to fire Murray and manage themselves. In Murray's words, "Band meeting over: forever."
To find out where the Conchords are heading, tune in to season 2, beginning January 18 on HBO. And stay tuned to HBO.com for updates and sneak peek videos!
Andrea Beca - Andrea has a BA (distinction) in English and Creative Writing from the University of Alberta, and an MLitt (distinction) in Dramaturgy and ...
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