The Rain Parade emerged as a pivotal act in the Paisley Underground movement of the early 1980s, which saw a collection of Los Angeles-based bands reviving the sounds and aesthetics of 1960s psychedelia. Formed in 1981, the group originally consisted of members Steven Roback (bass, vocals), his brother David Roback (guitar), Matt Piucci (guitar, vocals), Will Glenn (keyboards, violin), and Eddie Kalwa (drums). The band quickly gained attention with their distinct blending of psychedelic rock textures and dreamy melodies.

With their 1983 debut album, "Emergency Third Rail Power Trip," The Rain Parade cemented their place in alternative rock history with its lush, atmospheric sound that channeled the spirit of The Byrds and Love. Though they released only a few records – including the EP "Explosions In the Glass Palace," which added to their hazy, neo-psychedelic reputation – their influence was outsized, impacting the emerging paisley underground and later, alternative rock and shoegaze movements. The band experienced several lineup changes and eventually disbanded by the end of the decade. However, the lasting impact of their brief but burning flame can be heard in the subsequent musical endeavors of its members and the many bands inspired by their ethereal soundscapes.