Unravelling the truths from the many claims made about Beefheart's extraordinary & dark life from the LA Zoo to Trout Mask Replica. Marc recounts a story about a Beefheart doodle

V is for Van Vliet aka Captain Beefheart. Part 1

A definitive, but light-hearted look at the world of mid to late-Sixties psychedelia. Exploring the world changing counter-culture on both sides of the Atlantic via music, art, mind-bending band names and an impressive rogues gallery. Paying homage to legends such as Hendrix and Pink Floyd whilst celebrating lesser-known artists like Linda Perhacs. Some wonderful stories too - George Clinton’s hair-straightening job, The Beatles’ chauffeur on backing vocals and what Brian Wilson and his brothers did when their mum and dad went on holiday. Researched and presented by BBC 6 Music’s Marc Riley and music journalist Rob Hughes. Adult themes and drugs references mentioned throughout.

Music

Full length introductory episode to welcome you to the box set. Marc and Rob set out their stall discussing the main themes and players & their flexible approach to the alphabet!

Welcome to the A to Z of Psychedelia on 6 Music

Did you know the Rolling Stones took a witch on tour with them? How drugs affected the 13th Floor Elevators' Roky Erickson and the treatment he had to endure? It's all in here.

A is for Acid, Animals and Ambrose Slade

When Syd met Gilmore, what is the definition of psycedelia, the truth about the Byrds song Eight Miles High and how a gift of a banjo aged 13, influenced the young Tim Buckley.

B is for Barrett, Buckley and Byrds

The Chocolate Watchband support Frank Zappa but don't support The Grateful Dead or Jefferson Airplane - disaster. The Creation play an electric guitar with a violin bow - unique.

C is for Cream, Crazy World and Chocolate Watchband

Was Jim Morrison's dad responsible for the escalation of the Vietnam War? Was there tension between Donovan and Bob Dylan? - see Donovan's song Hey Mr Tangerine Eyes.

V is for Van Vliet aka Captain Beefheart. Part 1

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