With The Snake (1972), Harvey Mandel cemented his reputation as one of the most innovative guitarists of his era. This album slithers through genres with ease, fusing blues, funk, jazz, and psychedelia into a hypnotic, groove-laden journey. Tracks like “The Divining Rod” and “Pegasus” showcase Mandel’s mastery of his pioneering sustain and controlled feedback technique, while “Levitation” delivers a cosmic blues vibe that’s both earthy and otherworldly. Backed by a stellar lineup of musicians, Mandel pushes the boundaries of instrumental rock. The Snake remains a cult classic—a bold, genre-defying statement from a true guitar alchemist.