13th Floor Elevators

The 13th Floor Elevators are the Texan psychedelic pioneers who catapulted rock music to dizzying new heights in the 1960s. Led by the enigmatic frontman Roky Erickson, the band's trippy sound and rebellious spirit made them stand out in an era of conformity.

Formed in Austin in 1965, the Elevators quickly gained a cult following with their mind-altering blend of garage rock, blues, and pioneering use of the electric jug. Yes, you read that right - the jug. Trust me, it's cooler than it sounds.

Their debut album, "The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators," is a sonic journey through a kaleidoscopic wonderland, with tracks like "You're Gonna Miss Me" and "Reverberation (Doubt)" sending listeners on a mind-bending trip that would make even Timothy Leary jealous.

But as with many cult bands, the Elevators' time in the spotlight was brief. Infighting, legal troubles, and a general reluctance to play by the rules led to their untimely demise in 1969. Erickson's struggles with mental health issues further complicated the band's legacy, but his fearless approach to music remains an inspiration to this day.

Despite their short-lived career, the 13th Floor Elevators left an indelible mark on the music world, influencing everyone from The Flaming Lips to Primal Scream. So next time you're feeling a bit square, put on some Elevators and let their psychedelic magic transport you to a higher plane. Just remember to bring your own jug.