Is PXR5 a good place to start with Hawkwind?

Yes, PXR5 is recommended as a starting point for new Hawkwind listeners. A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and synthesizers, merging progressive rock with a psychedelic exploration of futuristic themes. PXR5 was released in 1979 as Hawkwind's ninth studio album, following their commercially successful live album, Space Ritual. At this point, the band was navigating shifts in lineup and sound, with a growing emphasis on electronic elements and space-themed narratives that had become their trademark.

PXR5 works well if you're into cosmic journey through soundscapes, dynamic exploration of themes and wave-like pacing with resolution.

How many songs are on PXR5?

PXR5 has 8 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

PXR5

Hawkwind · 1979

37 min · 8 tracks · progressive rock

A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and synthesizers, merging progressive rock with a psychedelic exploration of futuristic themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Death Trap Start here — This opening track immediately establishes the album's thematic focus on dystopian futures, featuring a driving rhythm and powerful guitar work that captures the essence of Hawkwind's sound.
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Jack of Shadows — A standout track that combines haunting lyrics with an almost hypnotic melody, reflecting the band’s ability to blend storytelling with musical experimentation.
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Robot — At over eight minutes long, this track serves as a centerpiece of the album, showcasing intricate instrumental sections and embodying the band's fascination with technology and its implications.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album blends heavy rock with electronic elements, showcasing strong compositions but uneven execution.

What we noticed

The album opens with a heavy guitar riff in 'Death Trap' that sets a driving pace, which is maintained through the first half.
Synthesizers are prominently featured throughout, particularly in 'Infinity' and 'Robot', creating a futuristic soundscape.
Tracks like 'High Rise' and 'P.X.R.5' incorporate spoken word elements, adding a narrative layer to the music.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

cosmic journey through soundscapes
dynamic exploration of themes
wave-like pacing with resolution
immersive listening for deep focus

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Represents a significant artistic evolution with innovative sound blending rock and electronic elements.
Career context: PXR5 was released in 1979 as Hawkwind's ninth studio album, following their commercially successful live album, Space Ritual. At this point, the band was navigating shifts in lineup and sound, with a growing emphasis on electronic elements and space-themed narratives that had become their trademark.
Stylistic neighbors: Pink Floyd· Can· Monster Magnet