The album is known for its diverse range of styles, blending rock, country-rock, and psychedelic influences. 

• "U.S. Blues": A rollicking, sardonic rocker originally titled "Wave That Flag".
• "Scarlet Begonias": A "decoratively funky" fan favorite that became a staple for live improvisation.
• "Unbroken Chain": An experimental composition by bassist Phil Lesh featuring Ned Lagin's synthesizer work; it was considered so complex the band rarely played it live.
• "China Doll": A "lightly lush" and mysterious ballad.
• "Pride of Cucamonga": A country-rock track sung by Phil Lesh that the band never performed live during their touring years. 

 Iconic Cover ArtThe artwork was created by Kelley/Mouse, the duo behind American Beauty and Europe '72. 

• Front Cover: Depicts a real San Francisco building (the derelict Mars Hotel flophouse) placed in an extraterrestrial landscape.
• Mirror Secret: If the front cover is turned upside down and viewed in a mirror, the stylized "Aztecan" text appears to read "Ugly Rumors", which was the album's working title.
• "AUTHENTIC": Original pressings feature the word "AUTHENTIC" embossed vertically on the left to distinguish official copies from counterfeits. 

50th Anniversary Editions (2024–2026)The 50th anniversary was celebrated with several remastered editions, including: 

• 3CD Deluxe Edition: Includes the remastered album, early demos of "China Doll" and "Wave That Flag," and a previously unreleased live show from the University of Nevada-Reno (May 12, 1974).
• Zoetrope Picture Disc: A limited-edition vinyl that appears to animate when viewed through a camera or strobe.
• Current Availability: Remastered CDs and various vinyl pressings (like neon pink or "Ugly Rumors" splatter) remain available at major retailers as of early 2026