Fat Mattress

Fat Mattress was a British psychedelic rock band formed in 1969 by Noel Redding, who was the bassist for the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Here are some key facts about Fat Mattress:

1. Formation and Band Members: Fat Mattress was formed in 1969 by Noel Redding after his departure from the Jimi Hendrix Experience. The original lineup consisted of Noel Redding (bass, vocals), Neil Landon (vocals, guitar), Jim Leverton (vocals, bass), and Eric Dillon (drums). Redding, seeking to explore new musical directions outside of the blues-rock framework of the Experience, formed Fat Mattress to delve into the burgeoning psychedelic rock scene.

2. Musical Style and Influences: Fat Mattress' music was characterized by its eclectic blend of psychedelic rock, folk, and blues influences. Drawing inspiration from the psychedelic movement of the late 1960s, the band crafted melodic, trippy soundscapes punctuated by swirling guitars, lush harmonies, and intricate arrangements. Their music reflected the experimental spirit of the era, with forays into improvisation and sonic exploration.

3. Album Releases and Critical Reception: Fat Mattress released two studio albums during their relatively short-lived career. Their self-titled debut album, "Fat Mattress" (1969), showcased the band's melodic songwriting and psychedelic sensibilities. The album received positive reviews from critics and attracted a dedicated following among fans of the burgeoning psychedelic rock scene. Fat Mattress' sophomore album, "Fat Mattress II" (1970), continued to explore psychedelic and folk-rock territory, further solidifying the band's reputation as a promising act in the British rock scene.

4. Lineup Changes and Disbandment: Fat Mattress experienced several lineup changes throughout their existence, with members coming and going between albums. Neil Landon departed the band after the release of their debut album, and Redding took on lead vocal duties in addition to bass. The band's lineup continued to evolve, with various musicians contributing to their recordings and live performances. Despite their critical acclaim and relative success, Fat Mattress disbanded in 1970 due to creative differences and the changing musical landscape of the time.

5. Legacy and Influence: While Fat Mattress' tenure as a band was relatively brief, their contributions to the psychedelic rock genre have left a lasting impact on subsequent generations of musicians. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans of psychedelic rock, with their albums remaining cult classics among aficionados of the genre. Fat Mattress' experimentation with sound and their willingness to push the boundaries of conventional rock music helped pave the way for future psychedelic and progressive rock artists, ensuring their legacy endures in the annals of rock history.