Revisiting The 13th Floor Elevators: The Trailblazing Psychedelic Band We All Need To Hear

Although The 13th Floor Elevators have been praised as one of the earliest psychedelic bands in rock history, their songwriting and production techniques have often been seen as limited. But while 68-year-old frontman Roky Erickson's iconic voice may come off somewhat raw at times, it has a unique aura that allows for some truly brilliant moments - from the feverish stomp of 'You're Gonna Miss Me' to the rolling rhythm of 'I Had To Tell You'. So while there are certainly critics to be found, there is much to appreciate with this band and their music; they remain an incredibly influential act nearly half a decade after their heyday.

The birth of psychedelic rock led to some of the most unique sounds and personalities in music history. One band that always comes to mind when we reflect on this era is The 13th Floor Elevators. The Austin-based band had a short run from 1965-1969, led by the eccentric Roky Erickson. Despite their limited discography, they are widely regarded as one of the earliest psychedelic bands in rock history. Their music and approach have often been criticized, but let's take a moment to revisit their crucial contributions and influence.

The 13th Floor Elevators were a band of trailblazers. They incorporated elements of rock, blues, and folk to create something entirely new and groundbreaking. Their debut single 'You're Gonna Miss Me' remains their most iconic track, a feverish stomp that captures the raw and gritty energy of the era. From there, they explored more complex musical territories, incorporating Eastern influences and surrealistic lyrics, forging a path to a new horizon.

What makes The 13th Floor Elevators unique is their approach to production and songwriting. Their limited musical abilities are overlooked, as they utilize different studio techniques to create their psychedelic sound. Erickson's limited vocal range is entirely fitting, adding to the overall aura of the music and lyrics. Songs like 'I Had To Tell You' exhibit their command of melody and rhythm; a rolling groove that's hard to resist.

The band's legacy is not only limited to their music but their influence on future generations of musicians. Bands such as The Flaming Lips, R.E.M, and The Jesus and Mary Chain cite The 13th Floor Elevators as a vital influence on their sound and approach. Their experimental nature allowed other bands to push boundaries and create music that exists outside of the norm.

Although their discography is small, The 13th Floor Elevators continue to be celebrated and praised for their contributions to music. Their influence can be felt across multiple genres, from punk to indie rock. Their music captures an era of free expression and untamed creativity that we still embrace today.

To truly appreciate The 13th Floor Elevators, you need to look past their limitations and embrace their unique approach to psychedelic rock. Their significance lies not only in their groundbreaking sound but their influence on generations of musicians that followed. The band may have been short-lived, but their impact endures. The trailblazing spirit of The 13th Floor Elevators serves as a reminder of the power of music to push boundaries and inspire change. So take a moment to revisit their music and let yourself be transported to a time when anything was possible.