space rock

Blast Off! A Brief History of Space Rock

A Cosmic Voyage:

Space rock, a genre that rockets through sonic landscapes, emerged in the late 1960s, fuelled by the psychedelic and experimental spirit of the time. The era’s fascination with the cosmos, spurred by the space race and burgeoning scientific understanding, bled into music, creating a soundscape that was both expansive and introspective.

Early Pioneers:

Early pioneers like Pink Floyd, with their epic compositions like “Atom Heart Mother,” laid the groundwork for the genre. The iconic “Dark Side of the Moon” album, released in 1973, solidified their place as space rock titans. Their music, often steeped in philosophical themes and rich with sonic textures, painted vivid sonic portraits of interstellar journeys and existential contemplation.

Beyond The Horizon:

Other notable early space rock acts included Hawkwind, a band known for their psychedelic space odyssey themes and their signature “space lords” attire. Their 1972 album “Space Ritual” is a prime example of their powerful live performances, filled with explosive guitar riffs and mystical storytelling.

A Starry Cast of Characters:

The space rock scene was a melting pot of eccentric personalities, each contributing their unique brand of cosmic weirdness:

• David Bowie: Not only did he deliver the iconic “Space Oddity,” but he also sported a multitude of cosmically inspired personas like Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke.
• Roxy Music: Their music explored themes of alienation and technological advancements, often accompanied by futuristic stage costumes and elaborate lighting.
• The Moody Blues: Their album “Days of Future Passed,” with its symphony-like arrangements and space-age narratives, remains a masterpiece of the genre.

Funny Facts From The Cosmic Circus:

• Hawkwind’s Lemmy Kilmister: The iconic bassist, known for his stoic stage presence, was once arrested for driving a stolen van filled with speakers while on LSD.
• Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters: In the early days, Waters’ stage persona involved wearing a “space helmet” – a modified gardening helmet, complete with a glowing red light.
• The Mars Volta: Known for their complex, experimental music, the band’s name was inspired by the 1968 film “Barbarella,” featuring a space mission to the planet Mars.

The Cosmic Legacy:

While the golden age of space rock may have passed, its influence continues to resonate. Bands like Muse, Radiohead, and even electronic artists like Aphex Twin carry the torch, experimenting with cosmic themes and pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration.

Space rock, with its unique blend of psychedelic energy and cosmic wonder, remains a genre that invites us to explore the vastness of the universe – both within and without.