Space Chase (1980-1985)

Between 1980 and 1985, Hawkwind released four great albums: Levitation, Sonic Attack, Choose Your Masques, and Chronicle of the Black Sword. During this period, the band blew through more drummers than Spinal Tap. In addition to the band’s own Simon King, Clive Deamer, and Martin Griffin, they also employed Ginger Baker of Cream/Blind Faith fame, as well as New Model Army's Rob Heaton and even The Cure's Andy Anderson. “Levitation” kicks off the compilation with Hawkwind’s instantly recognizable riff-chugging mantra, before analog synth notes trickle into the following “Motor Way City” (a proper space-rock jam flourished with face-melting acid-rock guitar leads). The grandiose title track explodes like an intergalactic battle where laser guns are replaced with Moogs and an arsenal of electric-guitar tape delay. Hawkwind fan favorites also surface here in the form of the 1982 single version of its only real radio hit, “Silver Machine,” with its Floydian-sounding b-side “Waiting for Tomorrow.” The fantastical “Dragons & Fables” is another standout.