RIP Series - Roky Erickson

Another day, another obscure rock star who doesn't get a mention in the mainstream press.  Roky Erickson was the front man for The 13th Floor Elevators.   Roky could be considered the Syd Barrett of American Garage Psych.  He eventually went off the deep end.  He spent time strung out, in mental institutions and living with his mother since 1970.  In the few years leading up to his death, he was making sort of a comeback basking in his status as a cult hero.

If nothing else, they leave us with their classic debut album.

The 13th Floor Elevators - The Psychedelic Sounds of The 13th Floor Elevators (1966)

This is the record that arguably defined American Garage Psych.  Heavily guitar driven with the added tone of an 'electric jug' permeating most tracks.

Originally released on International Artist Records (a Houston based independent which was also home to Bubble Puppy of Hot Smoke and Sassafras fame).  My copy is a reissue.

The inclusion of 'You're Gonna Miss Me' on Lenny Kaye's Nuggets compilation reintroduced the band to a new generation of musicians in the '70's.  Television covered 'Fire Engine' at many of their shows.  The garage-y sound was a big influence on the art/punk/DIY scene to come.