Hawkwind

Combining a driving rhythm, early electronics and sci-fi imagery, Hawkwind lay claim to being the ultimate space rock band. Coming from the underground scene in London's Ladbroke Grove, their success during the 70s - every album charted in the UK - was made the old fashioned way, through touring; if ever a band could lay the claim, Hawkwind were indeed a band for "the people". Despite constant lineup changes, their forte was live gigs (often playing for free), yet they managed a bonafide hit single with 1972's "Silver Machine", featuring future Motorhead Lemmy on vocals. The band remains best known for their run of albums on the United Artists label during the early to mid 70s, but also noteworthy is their later work that decade on Charisma, featuring Robert Calvert as front-man. In many shapes and forms, Hawkwind continue to this day.

Founded: 1969

Location: London, England

Website: Hawkwind.com