The Nice was a British progressive rock band formed in the late 1960s, known for their fusion of rock, jazz, and classical music. They played a significant role in the development of progressive rock and are often remembered for their virtuosic musicianship and innovative compositions.
Formation and Country:
The Nice was formed in 1967 in England. The band was initially created to support American soul singer P.P. Arnold but soon established themselves as a standalone act.
Members:
Classic Lineup:
- Keith Emerson – keyboards
- Lee Jackson – bass guitar, vocals
- Brian Davison – drums, percussion
- David O’List – guitar, vocals (left in 1968)
Full Discography:
- The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack (1967)
- Ars Longa Vita Brevis (1968)
- Nice (1969)
- Five Bridges (1970)
- Elegy (1971)
History:
Formation and Early Years: The Nice was formed in 1967 with Keith Emerson, Lee Jackson, Brian Davison, and David O’List. They initially played as the backing band for P.P. Arnold before gaining attention with their debut album, The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack (1967), which showcased their innovative blend of rock, classical, and jazz elements.
Development and Style: Their second album, Ars Longa Vita Brevis (1968), saw the departure of guitarist David O’List and the band continuing as a trio. This album further developed their symphonic rock style, featuring a long title track that incorporated classical music themes.
Breakthrough and Innovation: The band’s third album, Nice (1969), included their famous rendition of Leonard Bernstein’s “America” from West Side Story, which became a hit and demonstrated their ability to transform classical compositions into rock music. Five Bridges (1970) and Elegy (1971) continued to push the boundaries of progressive rock, with complex compositions and live recordings that highlighted their musicianship.
Disbandment and Legacy: The Nice disbanded in 1970 as Keith Emerson left to form Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), one of the most successful progressive rock bands of the 1970s. Despite their relatively short career, The Nice left a lasting impact on the progressive rock genre, influencing many bands with their pioneering fusion of rock and classical music.
Interesting Details:
- Classical Influence: The Nice was one of the first rock bands to incorporate classical music elements into their compositions, paving the way for future progressive rock acts.
- Keith Emerson: The band’s leader, Keith Emerson, became a prominent figure in progressive rock, known for his virtuosic keyboard playing and theatrical stage presence.
- “America”: Their version of “America” from West Side Story is one of their most famous tracks, showcasing their ability to blend classical and rock music seamlessly.
Music Themes:
The Nice’s music often explores:
- Classical Rock Fusion: Blending classical music themes and structures with rock instrumentation and energy.
- Extended Compositions: Featuring long, complex compositions that often included improvisation and thematic development.
- Virtuosic Musicianship: Highlighting the technical skill and creativity of the band members, particularly Keith Emerson’s keyboard work.
The Nice remains a key figure in the history of progressive rock, known for their innovative approach to blending classical and rock music and their influence on the genre’s development.
