Roky Erickson is undoubtedly a cult artists, who has often been compared to Syd Barret, though their
music is different. What they both have in common is that they are geniuses.
After releasing 3 essential albums with 13th Floor Elevator in the sixties,Roky's life became a tragedy,
ponctuated by stays in mental institutions and drug busts. The texan authorities hated to see a
rock singer driving the crowds crazy like he did with 13th Floor. Some people say that at their cocnerts,
even the cops were stoned ! The result of this is that his mental health was badly affected, though his
immense talent was always there, the best proof being the magnificent album he recorded with the
Aliens on CBS. His live appearances becam rare, but anytime he sung on stage, one could see
that his incredible charisma was intact. The 2 concerts on this double CD show what an incredible
performer he is. The Stones are making millions anytime they tour ; Roky was not lucky enough
to become a fashionable and rich artist like they did, but what he achieved despite all his problems
is priceless. He stands above the rest .
