Spirit is a legendary band that made significant contributions to the psychedelic rock genre. If you’re a fan of their unique sound, you’ll definitely want to check out these 15 bands and artists that share a similar vibe. Dive into the world of psychedelic rock and discover some new favorites!
1. The Doors
The Doors are one of the most iconic bands in psychedelic rock history. With hits like “Light My Fire” and “Riders on the Storm,” their music continues to captivate audiences. Their self-titled debut album and “L.A. Woman” are must-listens.
2. Jefferson Airplane
Jefferson Airplane is best known for their hit “White Rabbit” and the album “Surrealistic Pillow.” Their music is a cornerstone of the 1960s counterculture movement, blending rock with folk and psychedelic sounds.
3. Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s experimental approach to rock music has made them legends. Albums like “The Dark Side of the Moon” and “Wish You Were Here” are essential listening for any psychedelic rock fan.
4. The Byrds
The Byrds pioneered the fusion of folk and rock, creating a unique psychedelic sound. Their album “Fifth Dimension” and the song “Eight Miles High” are standout examples of their innovative style.
5. Love
Love, fronted by Arthur Lee, is a band that seamlessly blended rock, folk, and psychedelia. Their album “Forever Changes” is considered one of the greatest of all time, featuring tracks like “Alone Again Or.”
6. The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead are synonymous with the psychedelic rock scene. Known for their improvisational live performances, albums like “American Beauty” and “Workingman’s Dead” are essential.
7. Cream
Cream, featuring Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Jack Bruce, brought a bluesy edge to psychedelic rock. Their album “Disraeli Gears” and the song “Sunshine of Your Love” are classics.
8. The Zombies
The Zombies are known for their intricate melodies and harmonies. Their album “Odessey and Oracle” features the hit “Time of the Season” and is a masterpiece of the genre.
9. 13th Floor Elevators
- Floor Elevators, led by Roky Erickson, were pioneers of the psychedelic sound. Their song “You’re Gonna Miss Me” and the album “The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators” are essential listens.
10. The Electric Prunes
The Electric Prunes are best known for their hit “I Had Too Much to Dream (Last Night).” Their self-titled debut album is a great example of 1960s psychedelic rock.
11. Country Joe and the Fish
Country Joe and the Fish blended folk, rock, and psychedelia in a unique way. Their album “Electric Music for the Mind and Body” features the classic “Not So Sweet Martha Lorraine.”
12. The Pretty Things
The Pretty Things were a British band known for their wild stage antics and psychedelic sound. Their album “S.F. Sorrow” is often cited as one of the first rock operas.
13. Quicksilver Messenger Service
Quicksilver Messenger Service was a key player in the San Francisco psychedelic scene. Their albums “Happy Trails” and “Quicksilver Messenger Service” are filled with extended jams and improvisations.
14. The Soft Machine
The Soft Machine blended rock, jazz, and psychedelia into a unique sound. Their album “The Soft Machine” is a must-listen, featuring tracks like “Hope for Happiness.”
15. The Small Faces
The Small Faces were a British band that made significant contributions to the psychedelic rock genre. Their album “Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake” and the song “Itchycoo Park” are classics.
Explore these bands and artists to expand your psychedelic rock horizons and enjoy the timeless sounds of this influential genre.
