List of Garage Rock and Psychedelic Rock Compilation Albums - Overview

Overview

Despite the fact that many of the recordings being anthologized on these albums are extremely rare, the sheer volume of available garage rock recordings that have already been compiled is extensive. In all, there are reportedly more than 1,000 compilation albums of this sort, plus numerous other albums that concentrate on particular garage rock bands and artists. A large number of these compilation albums were released in limited runs of as little as 400 to 500 copies, such as the original 1978 release of the first album in the Pebbles series. Thus, many of these compilation albums have become rarities in themselves.

Most of these compilation albums were released in long series over a number of years, although many are standalone records. In many cases, the albums were first released on LP and later on CD; but many albums originated on CD, including some new volumes in established LP series. There are also numerous new LP's that are issued each year, including more than a few on 10" disks.

There are many on-line reference resources for garage rock and psychedelic rock music. Although most concentrate on the bands rather than the compilation albums, an exception is the remarkable database "Searchin' for Shakes", published by Ugly Things fanzine, which is available on line as well as in download form.

These albums have been generally regarded as quality examples of their genres, and are also noted for their highly idiosyncratic titles.