Essential psychedelic music listening

The albums that define psychedelic music.

Our picks for where to start with psychedelic music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The psychedelic music essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

3.15.20

Donald Glover

3.15.20

A kaleidoscopic exploration of genre blending, seamlessly merging psychedelic grooves with introspective lyricism.

Start here

Atavista

Donald Glover

Atavista

A kaleidoscopic blend of funk, R&B, and psychedelic sounds that captures existential musings.

Start here

Utopia

Travis Scott

Utopia

A kaleidoscopic blend of trap rhythms and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of fame and existentialism.

Start here

Rodeo

Travis Scott

Rodeo

A kaleidoscopic blend of trap beats, atmospheric production, and introspective lyricism that redefined modern hip-hop.

Start here

JackBoys 2

Travis Scott

JackBoys 2

A vibrant mix of trap beats and introspective lyrics, capturing the essence of contemporary hip-hop culture.

Start here

Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight

Travis Scott

Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight

An immersive blend of atmospheric beats and introspective lyrics that captures the essence of modern hip-hop's emotional landscape.

Start here

Astroworld

Travis Scott

Astroworld

A kaleidoscopic blend of psychedelic beats and trap rhythms, infused with introspective lyricism.

Start here

Cosmogramma

Flying Lotus

Cosmogramma

A cosmic exploration where jazz, electronic, and hip-hop collide in a vibrant tapestry of sound.

Start here

7 Piano Sketches

André 3000

7 Piano Sketches

A serene exploration of minimalist piano melodies paired with introspective narratives and whimsical storytelling.

Start here

Campfire Songs

Animal Collective

Campfire Songs

A tranquil blend of organic textures and ethereal harmonies invites introspection and a sense of wonder.

Start here

Strawberry Jam

Animal Collective

Strawberry Jam

A kaleidoscopic blend of experimental pop, electronic textures, and psychedelic rhythms that invites listeners to explore vibrant auditory landscapes.

Start here

Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished

Animal Collective

Spirit They're Gone, Spirit They've Vanished

A surreal blend of ethereal melodies and experimental soundscapes that evoke a dreamlike atmosphere.

Start here

Camp

Donald Glover

Camp

A genre-defying blend of introspective lyrics and eclectic production that challenges hip-hop norms.

Start here

Sung Tongs

Animal Collective

Sung Tongs

A whimsical blend of minimalist folk and abstract soundscapes that invites listeners into a vibrant dream world.

Start here

Because the Internet

Donald Glover

Because the Internet

A genre-blurring exploration of modern life, weaving introspective lyrics with eclectic beats and playful experimentation.

Start here

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Animal Collective

Merriweather Post Pavilion

A vibrant tapestry of layered harmonies and experimental textures that evoke a sense of buoyant nostalgia.

Start here

Here Comes the Indian

Animal Collective

Here Comes the Indian

A kaleidoscopic blend of avant-garde soundscapes and experimental pop that defies conventional structure.

Start here

Hollinndagain

Animal Collective

Hollinndagain

A kaleidoscopic blend of experimental pop and art rock that immerses listeners in vivid sonic landscapes.

Start here

Bando Stone and the New World

Donald Glover

Bando Stone and the New World

A kaleidoscopic blend of funk, hip-hop, and psychedelic soul that challenges genre boundaries.

Start here

Yasuke

Flying Lotus

Yasuke

A vibrant fusion of electronic textures and jazz-infused rhythms, echoing the spirit of an ancient samurai.

Start here

I Looked Up

The Incredible String Band

I Looked Up

A whimsical blend of folk melodies and psychedelic textures, reflecting a mystical journey through sound.

Start here

Changing Horses

The Incredible String Band

Changing Horses

A whimsical blend of folk and psychedelia, where complex arrangements intertwine with surreal storytelling.

Start here

U

The Incredible String Band

U

A whimsical blend of folk and psychedelia, where intricate melodies intertwine with dreamy narratives.

Start here

Out of Frequency

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour

Out of Frequency

A vibrant blend of psychedelic pop and jazz-infused grooves that invites listeners into a whimsical auditory landscape.

Start here