How much does history play into how we perceive music? Not our own history; that much should be clear to anyone who ever had personal connection to a song or artist. But what about history we’re not involved in? Specifically when it comes to Roky Erikson, the legendary singer/guitarist/songwriter for early psychedelic band the 13th Floor Elevators. I was aware of his tragic history the same instant I first heard him – intro’d by Henry Rollins on his KCRW radio show. Does knowing of his troubles and schizophrenia diagnosis (not to mention the abuse while detained at Rusk State Hospital and copious amounts of electro-shock therapy) color my perception of The Evil One, his debut album (depending how and where you first heard it), making it stand out differently than if I just heard it blind? I don’t know, and honestly I’m not sure it matters.

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