neo-psychedelia
music genre
Neo-psychedelia is a vibrant tapestry of sound that invites listeners into a kaleidoscopic realm, where infectious melodies intertwine with swirling guitars and experimental textures. This genre pulses with an energy that’s both euphoric and introspective, often laced with dreamy vocals that float above intricate layers of instrumentation. Imagine vivid sonic landscapes painted in bright colors, evoking a sense of wonder and exploration—perfect for late-night drives or lazy afternoons lost in thought.
Emerging in the late 1980s and peaking in the 1990s, neo-psychedelia developed as a response to the stripped-down aesthetic of grunge and the commercial pop of its time. Drawing inspiration from the classic psychedelic sounds of the ’60s, it embraced electronic influences and lo-fi aesthetics. Bands like The Flaming Lips brought eccentricity and experimentation to the forefront with albums like *Transmissions from the Satellite Heart*, while Tame Impala redefined modern psychedelia with their lush production on *Lonerism*. Additionally, groups like Spiritualized and The Brian Jonestown Massacre added their own unique flavors to this rich genre.
For newcomers to neo-psychedelia, start with Tame Impala’s *Currents*, which masterfully blends catchy hooks with atmospheric production. Then, dive into The Flaming Lips’ *Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots* for a whimsical journey filled with heartfelt lyricism and innovative soundscapes. Don’t miss out on MGMT’s *Oracular Spectacular*, where catchy melodies meet experimental tendencies head-on. Lastly, give a listen to King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard’s diverse catalog, as they push boundaries across multiple genres. And if you find yourself enchanted by these sounds, consider exploring shoegaze or space rock next.
49 artists in the catalog.
Guides for neo-psychedelia artists
Top neo-psychedelia albums
See essentials
All neo-psychedelia artists
Tame Impala
alternative rock, dream pop
MGMT
electronica, progressive rock
Kid Cudi
alternative hip-hop, alternative rock
Kevin Rudolf
alternative rock, dance-punk
Mac DeMarco
bedroom pop, indie pop
Screaming Trees
alternative rock, grunge
Super Furry Animals
alternative rock
Dr. Dog
indie folk
Dan Snaith
deep house, dream pop
Scott Weiland
alternative rock, grunge
Big Thief
Americana, alternative country
Richard Ashcroft
Britpop, alternative rock
Azalia Snail
Peter Bjorn and John
indie pop, indie rock
Fishmans
dream pop, dub music
Beach House
ambient music, dream pop
About neo-psychedelia
What is neo-psychedelia?
music genre
Where should I start with neo-psychedelia?
Start with "Little Dark Age" by MGMT. It captures what makes neo-psychedelia worth exploring.
What are the best neo-psychedelia albums?
The neo-psychedelia albums worth hearing first: "Little Dark Age" by MGMT, "Passion, Pain & Demon Slayin'" by Kid Cudi, "Man on the Moon III: The Chosen" by Kid Cudi, "Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager" by Kid Cudi and "Insano (Nitro Mega)" by Kid Cudi.
How many neo-psychedelia artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 49 neo-psychedelia artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.