Hawkwind started out as a progressive rock band in London, 1969. In 1970 they released their debut album, the self-titled Hawkwind, which was an underground success and helped develop the band's reputation and following. In 1971 they achieved commercial success with their In Search of Space album which reached number 18 in the UK album charts. This album also included concepts of space and science fiction which were to become trademark, re-occurring themes for Hawkwind.