The Nice

Overview

The Nice were an English progressive rock band that emerged in the late 1960s. Known for their pioneering fusion of rock, jazz, and classical music elements, The Nice played a significant role in the development of the progressive rock genre. The band was noted for their virtuosic musicianship, and they stood out during an era of rapid musical experimentation and innovation. Founded by keyboardist Keith Emerson, who later became famous as a member of Emerson, Lake & Palmer, The Nice managed to push the boundaries of rock music, incorporating elaborate compositions and innovative instrumental arrangements. Despite having a relatively short lifespan, The Nice left a lasting impact on the music world, often cited as one of the key influences for many progressive rock bands that followed.

Formation and Early Years

The Nice formed in 1967 in London, England. Initially, Keith Emerson was asked to form a backing band for American soul singer P. P. Arnold, resulting in the creation of The Nice. The original lineup included Keith Emerson on keyboards, Lee Jackson on bass guitar and vocals, David O'List on guitar and vocals, and Brian Davison on drums. As a quartet, they initially toured with P. P. Arnold but quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live performances, which often included extended instrumental sections and improvisations. Their initial sound was heavily influenced by jazz and classical music, which set them apart from most other bands of the time. The band's experimentation with different musical styles laid the groundwork for their later career, as they soon shifted from being a backing band to a standalone act.

Career Highlights

The Nice released their debut album 'The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack' in 1967, which is considered one of the first progressive rock albums. This album featured a mix of rock and classical influences, highlighted by Emerson's organ playing. It included tracks like 'Rondo', which became a staple in their live performances. Their second album, 'Ars Longa Vita Brevis', released in 1968, further established their reputation as innovators. This album included a suite titled 'Ars Longa Vita Brevis', which showcased their ability to blend rock with classical music seamlessly. In mid-1968, guitarist David O'List left the band, and The Nice continued as a trio. They delivered several notable performances, including a controversial concert at the Royal Albert Hall where Emerson set fire to an American flag in protest against the Vietnam War. Their third album, 'Nice' (1969), garnered them significant attention and went on to achieve moderate commercial success. The band's live performances were legendary for Emerson's showmanship, which often involved theatrics like stabbing his keyboard with knives.

Musical Style

The Nice were at the forefront of the progressive rock movement, known for their eclectic blend of rock, classical music, and jazz. Keith Emerson's keyboard playing was a central feature of their sound, characterized by his use of the Hammond organ and Moog synthesizer. The band's music often included complex time signatures, extended instrumental passages, and classical themes drawn from composers such as Bach, Sibelius, and Tchaikovsky. The Nice were also known for their improvisational skills, with each member contributing to the dynamic interplay during live performances. Their music can be described as ambitious and innovative, frequently pushing the boundaries of what rock music could be. The Nice was one of the first bands to blur the lines between different musical genres, laying the groundwork for future progressive rock acts.

Most Important Albums

The band's debut album, 'The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack', released in 1967, is considered a cornerstone of the progressive rock genre. It showcased their ability to blend rock with classical influences, setting the tone for the band's future works. Their second album, 'Ars Longa Vita Brevis' (1968), demonstrated further musical experimentation, featuring a conceptual suite that highlighted the band's classical influences and orchestral arrangements. In 1969, they released their self-titled album 'Nice', also known as 'Everything As Nice As Mother Makes It', which included tracks like 'Hang on to a Dream' and 'America', both of which showcased their signature style of combining rock with classical motifs. Their final album, 'Five Bridges', released in 1970, was ambitious in scope, with the title track being a suite composed by Emerson, reflecting his classical training and the band’s musical evolution. This album received critical acclaim and demonstrated the band's growth and versatility.

Legacy and Influence

Although The Nice disbanded in 1970, their influence on the music world has persisted. They were pioneers in blending rock with classical music, and their work inspired countless progressive rock bands that followed, including Emerson, Lake & Palmer, where Keith Emerson continued to develop his musical ideas. The Nice are credited with helping to pave the way for progressive rock as a genre, pushing the boundaries of what rock music could achieve in terms of complexity and artistic expression. Their innovative approach to composition and live performance set new standards that many bands sought to emulate. Furthermore, Keith Emerson's virtuosic keyboard playing continues to be celebrated, influencing generations of keyboardists across various musical genres. The Nice's role in the evolution of rock music remains a vital part of their enduring legacy, and their albums continue to be regarded as classics in the progressive rock canon.