Need a few stellar, brain-melting psychedelic albums to add to your collection? These four records are just a few personal favorites, and they’re particularly wonderful pieces of work to enjoy if you want to reach an altered state of mind. Let’s take a look, shall we?
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1. ‘The Perfect Prescription’ by Spacemen 3
This neo-psychedelic work from Spacemen 3 was released in 1987. The Perfect Prescription is often described as one of the greatest albums of the 1980s for a reason. The record is a slow burn of sorts that becomes more and more orchestral as the album goes on, likely mimicking the ebb and flow of an acid trip.
The whole of this album is essential listening, but songs like “Things’ll Never Be The Same” and “Ecstacy Symphony” are on another level.
2. ‘Anthem Of The Sun’ by Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead has more psychedelic-sounding albums than the 1968 record Anthem Of The Sun. Aoxomoxoa comes to mind. However, this sophomore release from one of the greatest jam bands of all time deserves more love for its avant-garde, experimental elements.
There are so many electrifying instruments on this record, from the kazoo to the harpsichord to the Latin American güiro.
3. ‘Piper At The Gates Of Dawn’ by Pink Floyd
We couldn’t leave out this legendary piece of work from our list of psychedelic albums that will take you on a mind-bending journey. Piper At The Gates Of Dawn by Pink Floyd is a beloved early-career record from the prog-rock icons, and the first (and more or less only) album to be made under the leadership of the incomparable Syd Barrett. If you love a bit of whimsy with your psychedelia, this record is a must-listen.
4. ‘Easter Everywhere’ by 13th Floor Elevators
Psychedelic albums don’t get more psychedelic than this. Easter Everywhere by 13th Floor Elevators was released in 1967 and is absolutely loaded with symbolism. This is the kind of record you’ll have to listen to a few times to really pick apart the meaning behind its songs, but it’s a journey worth taking.
And, of course, like most of 13th Floor Elevators’ work, Tommy Hall contributes the electric jug to the mix. Nobody was making music like they were.
Photo by Cyrus Andrews/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
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