Hawkwind ‎– X In Search Of Space

Hawkwind’s X In Search of Space (1971) is a cornerstone of space rock, a sprawling, psychedelic journey that cemented the band’s reputation as pioneers of cosmic soundscapes.

Released on United Artists, this was Hawkwind’s second studio album and the one that truly defined their identity. While their debut had already hinted at their fascination with science fiction and expansive jams, X In Search of Space pushed those ideas further, blending heavy rock riffs, hypnotic rhythms, and swirling electronics into a sound that felt both futuristic and primal.

The record is notable for its long, trance-like compositions, where repetition and gradual layering create a sense of cosmic voyage. Tracks like You Shouldn’t Do That and Master of the Universe exemplify the band’s approach: relentless basslines and pounding drums anchoring waves of guitar feedback, saxophone bursts, and electronic effects. The result is music that feels immersive, designed to transport listeners beyond conventional rock structures into a hallucinatory, otherworldly realm.

The album’s packaging was equally ambitious. It came with a fold-out sleeve designed by Barney Bubbles, including “The Hawkwind Log,” a booklet written by Robert Calvert that presented a fictional narrative of space travel. This integration of music, visuals, and storytelling reinforced Hawkwind’s image as not just a band but a complete cosmic experience.

Critically, X In Search of Space was a breakthrough. It reached the UK charts and established Hawkwind as a cult phenomenon, particularly among countercultural audiences drawn to its mix of heavy rock energy and psychedelic experimentation. Over time, it has been recognized as one of the definitive space rock albums, influencing later acts in progressive rock, electronic music, and even heavy metal.