For music lovers, certain sounds evoke certain feelings and moods, and nothing does this quite like space rock. This unique form of rock music that draws inspiration from space and cosmic themes emerged in the late 60s and early 70s with bands like Pink Floyd and Hawkwind. And while the genre faded out of the mainstream by the early 80s, it resurfaced with renewed invigoration in the late 80s and early 90s with bands such as Loop.
Loop, an English rock band, was formed in 1986 by Robert Hampson in Croydon. With their droning, dissonant, and sometimes chaotic sound, Loop became pioneers of what is now known as "trance-rock." Inspired by the likes of the Stooges and Can, Loop's music was characterized by a distorted blend of guitar riffs, powerful drums, and an unsettling sense of repetition that often drove the beat.
Loop's music was not for the faint-hearted; it was intense and raw, but it spoke to a generation of music lovers who were looking for something different from the mainstream. Their sound resonated with audiences, and their unique take on space rock helped to revive the genre.
The group topped the UK independent charts with their albums "Fade Out" (1989) and "A Gilded Eternity" (1990). These two albums are often cited as Loop's most successful releases, with critics praising their blend of spacey soundscapes and heavy rock riffs. But it wasn't just the music that made Loop stand out from their peers.
Loop's stage presence was equally as captivating as their sound. Their live shows were a sensory overload, with the band's energy and intensity drawing audiences in and holding them transfixed. The visuals that accompanied their performances were often trippy and mesmerizing, adding to the hypnotic experience of their music.
Despite their initial success, Loop disbanded in 1991, leaving behind a legacy as one of the pioneers of trance-rock and a band that helped to resurrect the concept of space rock. But their influence is still felt today, with bands like Moon Duo and Wooden Shjips drawing inspiration from Loop's sound and style.
In conclusion, Loop's music may not be for everyone, but their unique blend of spacey sounds and heavy rock has inspired generations of music lovers. Their success is a testament to the power of music to transcend genres and push boundaries. Loop may be gone, but their legacy lives on as a beacon of the creativity and energy that define the best of rock music.