This black-and-white flyer advertises a series of concerts held on November 22nd, 23rd, and 24th, 1968, at the legendary Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco, California. The Velvet Underground shared the stage with Sir Douglas Quintet + 2 and the Flamin’ Groovies for a captivating weekend of music.
The flyer, measuring 8 1/2 x 11 inches, is adorned with playful and surreal illustrations, capturing the psychedelic aesthetic of the late 1960s. The design includes whimsical characters, stars, and bursts of energy, reflecting the counterculture’s artistic sensibilities. A notable detail is the small logo from “Liberation Press” located in the lower-right corner, indicating the printer or publisher of the flyer.
The Avalon Ballroom, known for its connection to the San Francisco music scene, was a hub for experimental and iconic acts of the era. Featuring lights by the Brotherhood of Lights, the shows promised an immersive audiovisual experience, enhancing the avant-garde performances of The Velvet Underground and their co-performers.
Sharing the bill with Sir Douglas Quintet + 2 and the Flamin’ Groovies highlighted the eclectic mix of rock, psychedelic, and experimental sounds that the Avalon Ballroom was known for curating. These bands brought their distinctive energy to the stage, creating a dynamic and memorable series of performances.
This flyer is more than just a promotional item; it’s a snapshot of a cultural moment when music and art were deeply intertwined, and venues like the Avalon Ballroom served as epicenters for innovation and creativity. Collectors and fans of The Velvet Underground and the broader psychedelic music scene will appreciate this piece as both a historical artifact and a representation of the era’s artistic spirit.
This flyer is no longer available.