"Astounding Sounds, Amazing Music" is the sixth studio album by British rock band Hawkwind, released on August 27, 1976. It reached No. 33 on the UK album charts.
The title of the album pays homage to classic science fiction magazines, Astounding Stories and Amazing Stories, with the idea that each track could be viewed as a standalone science fiction narrative. The album cover humorously parodies these magazine covers, featuring illustrations by Tony Hyde and Barney Bubbles, who signed as Grove Lane. The inner sleeve includes playful ads for fictitious products associated with the band members, adding to the album's science fiction-themed presentation.
This album marked a transitional period for Hawkwind. The band switched management from Douglas Smith to Tony Howard and moved from United Artists Records to Charisma Records. The musical style changed significantly with the departure of Lemmy and the introduction of Paul Rudolph’s cleaner, formal bass guitar playing. The band also saw a shift in their songwriting and arrangement approach, with all members contributing to a more varied sound. Robert Calvert returned as a permanent vocalist, moving from his previous role as a poet. He aimed to transform live performances into theatrical experiences, incorporating visual elements and character-driven performances into the band's shows.
Hawkwind performed as special guests to Status Quo at Cardiff Castle on July 24, alongside Strawbs, Curved Air, and Budgie, with John Peel as the MC. They then embarked on a 17-date British tour from September 15 to October 5, supported by Tiger and featuring a stage set designed by Larry Smart of Exploding Galaxy. Recordings from these concerts were later released in compilations such as Weird Tape Volume 5 (1982) and *Atomhenge 76/Thrilling Hawkwind Adventures (2000).
After the tour, the band dismissed members Turner and Powell, recorded the single "Back on the Streets," and went on an additional eight-date tour in December. Astounding Sounds, Amazing Music reflects Hawkwind's evolving style and their efforts to blend more complex musical and theatrical elements into their work.
