The Flaming Lips are known for their eclectic blend of psychedelic rock, experimental sounds, and alternative music. If you’re a fan of their unique style, you’ll love discovering other bands and artists that share a similar vibe. Here are 12 recommendations to expand your musical horizons.
1. Animal Collective
Animal Collective is a band that thrives on experimental sounds and psychedelic influences. Their album Merriweather Post Pavilion is a must-listen, featuring popular tracks like “My Girls” and “Summertime Clothes.”
2. MGMT
MGMT burst onto the scene with their debut album Oracular Spectacular, which includes hits like “Electric Feel” and “Kids.” Their sound blends indie rock with psychedelic pop, making them a great companion to The Flaming Lips.
3. Tame Impala
Tame Impala, the brainchild of Kevin Parker, offers a modern take on psychedelic rock. Albums like Currents and Lonerism feature well-loved songs such as “Let It Happen” and “Feels Like We Only Go Backwards.”
4. The Avalanches
Known for their sample-heavy, genre-blending music, The Avalanches are a treat for fans of experimental sounds. Their album Since I Left You is a classic, with the title track and “Frontier Psychiatrist” standing out.
5. Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear combines indie rock with rich, layered instrumentation. Albums like Yellow House and Veckatimest feature standout tracks such as “Two Weeks” and “While You Wait for the Others.”
6. Beach House
Beach House offers a dreamy, ethereal sound that’s perfect for fans of The Flaming Lips’ more mellow moments. Their albums Teen Dream and Bloom include popular songs like “Zebra” and “Myth.”
7. Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens is known for his intricate compositions and emotive lyrics. Albums like Illinois and Carrie & Lowell feature beloved tracks such as “Chicago” and “Should Have Known Better.”
8. Spiritualized
Spiritualized blends space rock with gospel and blues influences. Their album Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space is a masterpiece, featuring songs like “Come Together” and the title track.
9. The War on Drugs
The War on Drugs offers a modern take on heartland rock with a psychedelic twist. Albums like Lost in the Dream and A Deeper Understanding include hits like “Red Eyes” and “Pain.”
10. Of Montreal
Of Montreal is known for their theatrical, genre-blending music. Albums like Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer? and Skeletal Lamping feature standout tracks such as “The Past Is a Grotesque Animal” and “Wraith Pinned to the Mist and Other Games.”
11. Panda Bear
Panda Bear, a member of Animal Collective, also has a successful solo career with a focus on experimental and psychedelic sounds. His album Person Pitch includes popular songs like “Bros” and “Comfy in Nautica.”
12. Deerhunter
Deerhunter combines ambient punk with psychedelic rock. Albums like Halcyon Digest and Microcastle feature well-loved tracks such as “Helicopter” and “Nothing Ever Happened.”
Dive into these bands and artists to find new favorites that capture the same spirit and innovation as The Flaming Lips. Happy listening!
