The Flaming Lips

by SF

Arguably the most dynamic band in existence, The Flaming Lips formed in 1983 as an alternative quartet but are regarded today as one of the most experimental troupes in contemporary music. With influences ranging from David Bowie to The Doors and even Frank Zappa, it is nearly impossible to find a commonality that exists as a precursor to their music as they find ways to synthesize elements of all both sonically and lyrically.

Founder Wayne Coyne's creative prowess is frequently regarded as genius, and is simply unmatched by his peers. His ability to write multi-toned music strewn with colorful sounds and funky lyrics make The Lips a band of their own universe.

Unafraid to eliminate musical demarcations, they venture past the accepted and land in the weird, eventually bringing it not only to relevance, but in fact, laudatory approval.

They are commonly classified as psychedelic, but this is too broad a classification, and in some ways, too narrow one.

They flirt with space rock, acid fusion, and experimental dream pop.

Collaborations of recent include chill wave founder Neon Indian and indie group Star Death. In fact, every LP/EP has differed so drastically from one another that one is only able to recognize a thread of common thematic elements unique to The Flaming Lips in order to attest to their connection.

I would strongly recommend listening to their critically acclaimed albums The Soft Bulletin and Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots. These are very accessible records that still maintain musical integrity.

The 2009 effort, Embryonic, is phenomenal though a harder listen and may be difficult to process for first time listeners.

The Flaming Lips exemplify the ideal musician(s) by transcending genres and mixing artistic intuition with cerebral mastery.