Is 25 Years On a good place to start with Hawkwind?

Yes, 25 Years On is recommended as a starting point for new Hawkwind listeners. A swirling blend of progressive rock and psychedelic soundscapes, transporting listeners through cosmic themes and intricate musical arrangements. By the time '25 Years On' was released in 1978, Hawkwind was already a well-established name in the space rock genre, following their breakthrough album 'Space Ritual' in 1973. This album marked a transition for the band, showcasing a more experimental approach with shorter tracks and a focus on thematic storytelling, reflecting on societal changes over the past quarter-century.

Who is 25 Years On for?

25 Years On works well if you're into steady mid-tempo cosmic exploration, haunting melodies for reflective moments and in-order listening for full experience.

How many songs are on 25 Years On?

25 Years On has 8 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Released 48 years ago this October

25 Years On

Hawkwind · 1978

34 min · 8 tracks · progressive rock

A swirling blend of progressive rock and psychedelic soundscapes, transporting listeners through cosmic themes and intricate musical arrangements.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Psi Power Start here — This opening track sets the tone with its haunting melody and lyrical exploration of psychic phenomena, embodying the band's signature blend of mysticism and rock.
→
25 Years — The title track encapsulates the album’s reflective nature, addressing the passage of time and societal change through evocative lyrics and a compelling structure.
→
The Only Ones — This song stands out for its poignant commentary on existential dread and technological advancement, resonating deeply with listeners during a period of uncertainty.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo cosmic exploration
haunting melodies for reflective moments
in-order listening for full experience
short tracks with cohesive journey

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek longer immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Offers a unique exploration of themes but isn't widely recognized as essential.
Career context: By the time '25 Years On' was released in 1978, Hawkwind was already a well-established name in the space rock genre, following their breakthrough album 'Space Ritual' in 1973. This album marked a transition for the band, showcasing a more experimental approach with shorter tracks and a focus on thematic storytelling, reflecting on societal changes over the past quarter-century.
Stylistic neighbors: Pink Floyd· Can· Monster Magnet