Sonic Attack cover

Sonic Attack

Hawkwind · 1981

43 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock · psychedelic rock · space rock

A dizzying blend of space rock and progressive sounds, marked by haunting vocals and cosmic themes.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic progression with resolution wave-like pacing throughout tracks haunting vocals and cosmic themes
Context
Released on October 18, 1981, 'Sonic Attack' was Hawkwind's tenth studio album, coming after a period of lineup changes and experimentation. The band had already established themselves in the space rock genre, but this album showcased a more aggressive sound as they embraced new influences while navigating the complexities of their evolving musical identity.
If you like
progressive rock, psychedelic rock, space rock

Sonic Attack is an album by Hawkwind, released in 1981. A dizzying blend of space rock and progressive sounds, marked by haunting vocals and cosmic themes. 'Sonic Attack' is notable for its exploration of darker themes and its critical reception; it reached number 27 on the UK Albums Chart. The album is often recognized for merging heavy rock with avant-garde elements, influencing later psychedelic and progressive rock bands. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sonic Attack sound like?

A dizzying blend of space rock and progressive sounds, marked by haunting vocals and cosmic themes. Rooted in progressive rock and psychedelic rock.

What makes Sonic Attack by Hawkwind notable?

'Sonic Attack' is notable for its exploration of darker themes and its critical reception; it reached number 27 on the UK Albums Chart. The album is often recognized for merging heavy rock with avant-garde elements, influencing later psychedelic and progressive rock bands. Released on October 18, 1981, 'Sonic Attack' was Hawkwind's tenth studio album, coming after a period of lineup changes and experimentation. The band had already established themselves in the space rock genre, but this album showcased a more aggressive sound as they embraced new influences while navigating the complexities of their evolving musical identity.

Who is Sonic Attack for?

Sonic Attack works well if you're into dynamic progression with resolution, wave-like pacing throughout tracks and haunting vocals and cosmic themes.

How many songs are on Sonic Attack?

Sonic Attack has 11 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·43:11

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

  • 1 Sonic Attack Standout 4:45
  • 2 Rocky Paths 4:00
  • 3 Psychosonia 2:32
  • 4 Virgin of the World (From the Church of Hawkwind) Standout 4:32
  • 5 Angels of Death 5:42
  • 6 Living on a Knife Edge Standout 4:49
  • 7 Coded Languages 1:44
  • 8 Disintegration 1:06
  • 9 Streets of Fear 4:12
  • 10 Lost Chances 5:45
  • 11 Trans-dimensional Man 4:03

Release Date

October 18, 1981

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

43 min 11 sec