Tyrannosaurus Rex (May 11, 1968) – Middle Earth Advert

A striking psychedelic concert advertisement from Melody Maker dated May 11, 1968, promoting an intimate club show by Tyrannosaurus Rex at the legendary Middle Earth venue in Covent Garden.

SOURCE DETAILS

Publication: Melody Maker

Date: May 11, 1968

Country: United Kingdom

Section / Page: Entertainment / Club Listings

Title: Tyrannosaurus Rex at Middle Earth – Concert Advertisement

THE STORY

This Melody Maker advert captures Tyrannosaurus Rex (Marc Bolan and Steve Peregrin Took) during their early underground rise in 1968. It promotes their performance on Monday, May 13th at Middle Earth, supported by Junior’s Eyes and Beowulf, with John Peel as host. The ornate, hand-drawn style with celestial imagery perfectly reflects the mystical, folk-psych aesthetic of the band at this pivotal moment.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

In spring 1968, Tyrannosaurus Rex were becoming a cult favourite on the London underground circuit. Middle Earth was one of the era’s most important psychedelic clubs, famous for its all-night happenings, light shows, and progressive bookings. John Peel’s involvement highlights the band’s growing credibility in the alternative scene, just months after the release of their debut single “Debora”.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Tyrannosaurus Rex live at Middle Earth

Era: 1968 – Underground psychedelic / folk-rock period

Tone: Mystical and counter-cultural

Design: Ornate black-and-white illustration with decorative border

Audience: UK underground music fans, early Bolan enthusiasts, and Melody Maker readers

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

A beautifully illustrated advert featuring the iconic Middle Earth logo with intertwined figures and winged creatures. It lists the full week’s lineup including The Family The Action, The Byrds, and upcoming Pink Floyd, with Tyrannosaurus Rex prominently featured for Monday 13th May alongside John Peel. The intricate border of stars and the hand-drawn typography embody the psychedelic club culture of late-1960s London.

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