What makes Indian War Whoop by The Holy Modal Rounders notable?

Indian War Whoop is notable for its influence on the psychedelic folk movement and its role in shaping the sound of counterculture music during the 1960s. The album features tracks like Cocaine Blues and Soldier's Joy that have been covered by various artists, highlighting its enduring impact on subsequent generations of musicians. It also showcases the band's irreverent take on Americana, contributing to a larger cultural conversation around folk music. Released in early 1967, Indian War Whoop was The Holy Modal Rounders' second album, following their self-titled debut. This record solidified their presence in the burgeoning psychedelic folk scene, showcasing a more refined sound while retaining their eccentric style. The band was gaining recognition for their unique approach to traditional American music, setting the stage for future experimental endeavors.

How many songs are on Indian War Whoop?

Indian War Whoop has 10 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Indian War Whoop

The Holy Modal Rounders · 1967

31 min · 10 tracks · psychedelic folk

An eclectic blend of folk and psychedelia, infused with playful absurdity and raw, lo-fi charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cocaine Blues — This track stands out for its darkly humorous lyrics and catchy melody, exemplifying the band's ability to blend traditional themes with a modern twist. Its narrative structure captures the spirit of rebellion prevalent in the 1960s.
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Soldier's Joy — The arrangement here highlights the band’s fusion of old-timey instrumentation with contemporary sensibilities, making it a prime example of their innovative style. The lively tempo invites listeners to engage with its historical roots.
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Sweet Apple Cider — With its whimsical lyrics and playful tone, this track encapsulates the band's unique charm and serves as an invitation into their quirky world. Its infectious energy showcases their knack for storytelling through song.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

47 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends folk and psychedelia with playful absurdity, showcasing unique structures and informal vocals.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a prominent banjo riff, setting a playful tone that persists throughout.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.
The vocal delivery often includes spoken word elements and harmonized backing vocals, creating a distinctively informal atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 5/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Indian War Whoop 2:54
2 Sweet Apple Cider 3:08
3 Soldier's Joy 2:49
4 Cocaine Blues 2:44
5 Sky Divers 5:03
6 Radar Blues 5:36
7 The I.W.W. Song 4:07
8 Football Blues 1:45
9 Bay Rum Blues 2:16
10 Morning Glory 0:38

What to play next

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Go back to

The Holy Modal Rounders 2

1965

Full The Holy Modal Rounders discography Artists like The Holy Modal Rounders

psychedelic folk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata