8 Overlooked Tracks from Blue Cheer’s Heavy Psych Rock Era

Blue Cheer, a band known for their deafeningly loud concerts and raw psychedelic blues sound, was a major force in the rock scene of the late 1960s. With a sound that could only be described as a precursor to heavy metal, Blue Cheat left an indelible mark on the world of music. While some of their songs reached chart success, there are a handful of tracks that often go unnoticed but showcase the band’s unique blend of psychedelia and hard rock. Here, we explore eight such tracks from their most influential era.

1. Out of Focus

“Out of Focus” from the album Vincebus Eruptum is a raw explosion of sound that captures the essence of Blue Cheer’s style. The gritty vocals and thundering instruments blend together to create a song that’s as rough as it is energetic. The band’s performance emits a sense of youthful rebellion and a desire to break free from societal norms. This track is a perfect example of how Blue Cheer liked to push musical boundaries, creating sounds that were ahead of their time.

2. Babylon

Featured on the Outsideinside album, “Babylon” starts with a gripping guitar riff that instantly pulls the listener into a whirlwind of sound. The lyrics weave tales of excess and the pursuit of pleasure, themes that resonated with the counterculture of the 1960s. The intensity of the music matches the chaotic, sometimes hedonistic tales sung by Dickie Peterson. This track stands out for its bold exploration of dark themes, wrapped in compelling music that makes you want to listen over and over.

3. Parchment Farm

“Parchment Farm” is Blue Cheer’s raucous rendition of a blues classic that speaks to themes of confinement and the yearning for freedom. The band’s version is loud, filled with raw, unfiltered energy that seems to mirror the frustration and anger of being trapped. The heavy guitar work and forceful drumming transform this blues number into a powerful rock statement, showcasing the band’s ability to reinterpret other music genres through their distinctive psychedelic lens.

4. Second Time Around

Deep in the grooves of the Vincebus Eruptum album lies “Second Time Around,” a track that encapsulates the tumultuous nature of personal relationships. The music is a turbulent journey through emotions, with each instrument vividly painting feelings of betrayal and the turmoil that comes with it. The song’s structure mirrors the cyclical pattern of returning to something, or someone, despite better judgment, giving the listener a sonic representation of internal conflict.

5. Just a Little Bit

From the album Outsideinside, “Just a Little Bit” captures the listener with its forceful entry and never lets go. The track is an energetic plea for affection, delivered with the characteristic Blue Cheer power. The performance is gripping, with each band member pushing their instrument to the limit, creating a sound that’s both overwhelming and compelling. This song is a pure showcase of the band’s skill at blending heavy rock with emotionally charged lyrics.

6. Sun Cycle

Another gem from the Outsideinside album, “Sun Cycle” is an experimental track that plays with stereo sound placement, truly showcasing the band’s musicality and innovative spirit. The song features an intense performance that feels almost ritualistic, with repetitive, trance-like elements that pull the listener into a psychedelic experience. The guitar solos are particularly notable, featuring a blend of techniques that make the track a standout piece in Blue Cheer’s repertoire.

7. Peace of Mind

“Peace of Mind” is a standout track from the album New! Improved!, offering a slightly different vibe from their usual sonic assault. This song has a somewhat more melodic approach but doesn’t lose the heavy, gritty texture that the band is known for. It explores themes of searching and eventually finding a mental respite, something that seems almost reflective when contrasted with the band’s typically wilder tracks. It demonstrates Blue Cheer’s ability to diversify their sound without losing their core identity.

8. Summertime Blues

Perhaps one of the most famous tracks from Blue Cheer, “Summertime Blues” from Vincebus Eruptum should not be overlooked for its popularity. This cover of Eddie Cochran’s classic hit was transformed into a high-energy rock anthem that became emblematic of Blue Cheer’s sound and attitude. The band turned the song into a roaring declaration of frustration and youthful defiance, making it a timeless piece that still resonates with audiences today. This track perfectly showcases how Blue Cheer could take a well-known song and inject it with their unique brand of psychedelic heavy rock.