bull of the woods

Released in 1969, this was the final studio album from Texas psychedelic pioneers. It includes the singles “Livin’ On” and the band’s ethereal swansong, “May the Circle Remain Unbroken.” A key entry in their catalogue, the record has only grown in stature as the band’s story has become more widely understood.

By the time recording began, the group was under immense strain. Lead vocalist Roky Erickson had to be broken out of a mental hospital in Houston by the band’s lyricist, Tommy Hall. The band then fled to San Francisco, leaving lead guitarist Stacy Sutherland stranded in Texas, unable to cross state lines due to probation restrictions.

Tracks such as “Livin’ On,” “Never Another,” “Dr. Doom,” and “May the Circle Remain Unbroken” feature the full band, but much of the remaining material was recorded with Sutherland fronting a power trio alongside former bassist Ronnie Leatherman and drummer Danny Thomas. Soon after the sessions, Ronnie was drafted to Vietnam, Danny underwent electric-shock treatment, and Stacy was jailed for a parole violation. Despite the turmoil surrounding its creation, Bull of the Woods has earned increasing recognition for its darker, more shadowed psychedelic edge.

Track Listing:

• Livin’ On
• Barnyard Blues
• Till Then
• Never Another
• Rose And The Thorn
• Down By The River
• Scarlet And Gold
• Street Song
• Doom
• With You
• May The Circle Remain Unbroken