If you’re a fan of the psychedelic rock and progressive rock sounds of Traffic, you’re in for a treat. This genre, known for its eclectic mix of rock, jazz, and folk influences, has produced some truly iconic music over the years. Here are 20 bands and artists that capture the spirit and essence of Traffic. For more on Traffic, check out this link.
1. Blind Faith
Blind Faith was a supergroup featuring Steve Winwood from Traffic, Eric Clapton, Ginger Baker, and Ric Grech. Their self-titled album, Blind Faith, includes the popular track “Can’t Find My Way Home.”
2. Cream
Cream, another supergroup featuring Eric Clapton, brought a bluesy edge to the psychedelic rock scene. Their albums Disraeli Gears and Wheels of Fire include hits like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “White Room.”
3. The Moody Blues
The Moody Blues are known for their lush, symphonic soundscapes. Albums like Days of Future Passed and In Search of the Lost Chord feature classics such as “Nights in White Satin” and “Ride My See-Saw.”
4. Procol Harum
Procol Harum brought a baroque touch to rock music, most famously with their hit “A Whiter Shade of Pale.” Their album Procol Harum remains a staple of the genre.
5. The Byrds
The Byrds combined folk rock with psychedelic influences, creating timeless songs like “Turn! Turn! Turn!” and “Eight Miles High.” Albums like Mr. Tambourine Man and Younger Than Yesterday are must-listens.
6. Jethro Tull
Jethro Tull, led by Ian Anderson, is famous for its unique blend of rock and folk with a touch of classical music. Their albums Aqualung and Thick as a Brick include hits like “Locomotive Breath.”
7. The Band
The Band’s rootsy, Americana sound has influenced countless musicians. Albums like Music from Big Pink and The Band feature classics such as “The Weight” and “Up on Cripple Creek.”
8. The Small Faces
The Small Faces were pioneers of the mod and psychedelic rock movements in the UK. Their album Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake includes the hit “Lazy Sunday.”
9. Santana
Santana, led by guitarist Carlos Santana, fused rock with Latin music to create a unique sound. Albums like Abraxas and Santana feature hits such as “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va.”
10. Ten Years After
Ten Years After, fronted by Alvin Lee, is known for its blues-rock prowess. Their performance at Woodstock and albums like Ssssh and Cricklewood Green include tracks like “I’m Going Home.”
11. The Doors
The Doors, led by Jim Morrison, brought a dark, poetic edge to psychedelic rock. Albums like The Doors and L.A. Woman feature iconic songs such as “Light My Fire” and “Riders on the Storm.”
12. King Crimson
King Crimson is known for its complex, progressive rock compositions. Albums like In the Court of the Crimson King and Red include tracks like “21st Century Schizoid Man.”
13. Yes
Yes is a cornerstone of progressive rock, known for their intricate musical arrangements. Albums like Fragile and Close to the Edge feature songs such as “Roundabout” and “And You and I.”
14. Genesis
Genesis, initially fronted by Peter Gabriel and later by Phil Collins, is renowned for its progressive rock legacy. Albums like Selling England by the Pound and The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway are essential listening.
15. Jefferson Airplane
Jefferson Airplane was a leading force in the San Francisco psychedelic rock scene. Their albums Surrealistic Pillow and After Bathing at Baxter’s include hits like “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.”
16. The Zombies
The Zombies are celebrated for their sophisticated pop and rock sound. Their album Odessey and Oracle features the timeless hit “Time of the Season.”
17. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young blended folk, rock, and harmonies to create a unique sound. Albums like Déjà Vu and Crosby, Stills & Nash include classics such as “Teach Your Children” and “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes.”
18. The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band is known for its Southern rock and blues influences. Albums like At Fillmore East and Brothers and Sisters feature tracks like “Whipping Post” and “Ramblin’ Man.”
19. Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s experimental and psychedelic approach has made them legends in rock music. Albums like The Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here include iconic songs such as “Comfortably Numb.”
20. Steely Dan
Steely Dan’s sophisticated blend of rock, jazz, and pop has earned them a dedicated following. Albums like Aja and Can’t Buy a Thrill feature hits such as “Reelin’ in the Years” and “Peg.”
