The best Psychedelic Rock albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 psychedelic rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — psychedelic rock
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Eric Clapton
Guitar Boogie
A vibrant collection of instrumental blues, blending energetic guitar boogies with dynamic rhythms and a laid-back West Coast vibe.
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George Harrison
Thirty Three & 1/3
A warm blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks, reflecting a playful yet poignant exploration of love and self-worth.
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George Harrison
Dark Horse
A blend of rock, folk, and Eastern influences that reflects introspection and spiritual exploration through lush arrangements.
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David Bowie
Diamond Dogs
A theatrical blend of glam rock and dystopian themes enveloped in rich, cinematic soundscapes.
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David Bowie
Lodger
A vibrant fusion of world rhythms and avant-garde pop, showcasing Bowie's adventurous spirit in the late '70s.
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Eric Clapton
There's One in Every Crowd
A soulful blend of blues and rock, showcasing Clapton's emotive guitar work against reflective lyrical themes.
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John Lennon
Rock 'n' Roll
A vibrant homage to rock and roll's roots, blending raw energy with nostalgic reverence for classic hits.
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Pink Floyd
Obscured by Clouds
A dreamlike blend of atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics that encapsulate the essence of early 70s progressive rock.
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Pink Floyd
Atom Heart Mother
An expansive exploration of sound, blending orchestral arrangements with experimental rock and psychedelic textures.
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John Lennon
Mind Games
An introspective blend of rock and experimental sounds, marrying philosophical musings with melodic hooks.
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Jimi Hendrix
Loose Ends
A collage of blues-infused rock that captures Jimi Hendrix's raw energy and experimental spirit through unrefined recordings.
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Jimi Hendrix
War Heroes
A vibrant tapestry of blues and rock, echoing Hendrix's electric guitar mastery and innovative spirit.
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Paul McCartney
Thrillington
A whimsically orchestrated reimagining of McCartney's earlier works, blending playful melodies with lush arrangements.
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Paul McCartney
McCartney
A lo-fi exploration of melody and introspection woven through gentle acoustic arrangements and heartfelt vocals.
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Deep Purple
Fireball
A fiery blend of hard rock and progressive elements, igniting with intense riffs and dynamic instrumental exchanges.
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Deep Purple
Stormbringer
A blend of hard rock and soul, infused with funk rhythms and contemplative lyrics that explore themes of love and loss.
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Frank Zappa
Weasels Ripped My Flesh
A chaotic blend of rock, jazz, and avant-garde sounds that challenges conventions and embraces improvisation.
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Frank Zappa
Chunga's Revenge
A wild blend of avant-garde rock and jazz inflected with Zappa's signature satirical wit and complex arrangements.
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King Crimson
Lizard
An experimental blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde elements that defies conventional song structures and embraces surrealism.
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King Crimson
Starless and Bible Black
A complex tapestry of jazz-inflected rhythms and haunting melodies, pushing the boundaries of progressive rock into darker territories.
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Jethro Tull
A Passion Play
A surreal journey through theatrical narratives and intricate instrumentation, blending progressive rock with whimsical storytelling.
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Jethro Tull
Thick as a Brick
A sprawling, theatrical odyssey blending intricate melodies with a satirical narrative that challenges the conventions of rock music.
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The Moody Blues
Seventh Sojourn
A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics woven into the fabric of progressive rock.
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The Moody Blues
Octave
A rich tapestry of orchestral arrangements and lush harmonies, exploring themes of love and existence through a progressive rock lens.
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