Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 cover

Greatest Hits, Vol. 1

The Flaming Lips · 2018

45 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscopic journey through alternative rock, blending surreal lyrics with lush instrumentation and infectious melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Do You Realize?? Start here — This track encapsulates the band's signature blend of existential themes and uplifting melodies, making it an anthem for celebrating life despite its challenges.
  • →
    Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Part 1 — A defining song that combines whimsical storytelling with a powerful message about resilience, it perfectly represents the band’s innovative approach to songwriting.
  • →
    Race for the Prize — This track's energetic tempo and poignant lyrics about teamwork and sacrifice have made it a staple in their live performances, symbolizing hope amid struggle.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • nostalgic anthems for sing-alongs
  • playful irreverence throughout tracks
  • short bursts of uplifting energy

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer heavy, dense compositions
  • want straightforward, linear narratives

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Starting Point — A compilation that introduces new listeners to key tracks from their career.
Themes
surreal storytelling· cosmic resilience· life's fleeting moments
Career context
By the time of this release in 2018, The Flaming Lips had established themselves as a pivotal band in alternative and space rock since their debut in 1986. This compilation follows several critically acclaimed albums, including 'The Terror' (2013) and 'Oczy Mlody' (2017), reflecting their evolution and enduring appeal over three decades.
Stylistic neighbors
Animal Collective· Tame Impala· MGMT
New to The Flaming Lips? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Do You Realize?? Start here 3:32
  • 2 Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Part 1 4:45
  • 3 Race for the Prize 4:09
  • 4 Waitin' for a Superman (Is It Getting Heavy?) 4:17
  • 5 When You Smile 3:14
  • 6 She Don’t Use Jelly 3:40
  • 7 Bad Days (Aurally Excited version) 4:38
  • 8 The W.A.N.D. (The Will Always Negates Defeat) 3:42
  • 9 Silver Trembling Hands 3:59
  • 10 The Castle 4:51
  • 11 The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song 4:51

What to play next

King's Mouth
Listen next

King's Mouth

2019

Continues the eclectic sound and experimental approach from the hits collection.
Oczy Mlody
Go back to

Oczy Mlody

2017

Sets a dreamy, atmospheric foundation leading into the hits experience.
Full The Flaming Lips discography Where to start with The Flaming Lips Artists like The Flaming Lips
alternative rock space rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Currents

Currents

Tame Impala

Shares a lush psychedelic soundscape with surreal lyrics and infectious melodies.

Oracular Spectacular

Oracular Spectacular

MGMT

Combines alternative rock with dreamy synths and whimsical storytelling, evoking a similar vibe.

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Animal Collective

Explores kaleidoscopic textures and vibrant melodies that resonate with adventurous sonic exploration.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata