
High-velocity poetry meeting raw garage rock. Shamanic vocals and literary fire that redefined the New York underground. For the restless and the visionary.
The Patti Smith Group was the bridge between the 1960s bohemian counterculture and the 1970s punk explosion. Formed in New York City, the band was anchored by Patti Smith's visionary lyricism and Lenny Kaye's deep knowledge of 'Nuggets'-era garage rock.
Their 1975 debut, 'Horses', produced by John Cale, is widely considered one of the most influential albums in rock history, merging Rimbaud-inspired poetry with the energy of the Velvet Underground and Van Morrison. The group's sound was defined by a unique instrumental lineup that featured prominent piano alongside distorted guitars, allowing for a dynamic range that could shift from delicate recitation to abrasive noise. Culturally, they challenged gender norms and the commercialization of rock, positioning the artist as a shamanic figure. Despite a brief hiatus following a serious stage injury in 1977, they achieved commercial success with the album 'Easter' before Smith's temporary retirement in 1979. Their influence is foundational to post-punk, alternative rock, and the riot grrrl movement.

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