She Hangs Brightly (RSD Essential)

This dark and dreamy psychedelic band pairs former Rain Parade and Opal guitarist Dave Roback with vocalist Hope Sandoval. Drawing primarily from the swirling, textured drone of such '60s groups as the Velvet Underground and the Doors, Mazzy Star also incorporate blues, country, and pulsing acoustic folk elements, creating a highly textured and luminous amalgam. The band's auspicious debut is a rich, atmospheric bag of tricks.