You’ve never heard the Pretty Things? Have you listened to David Bowie’s Pin Ups? He covers a couple Pretty Things tunes on that album. The Nuggets 2 box set? A handful are on there. But if you’re totally in the dark, I really recommend going out and getting your hands on a copy of their 1968 album S.F. Sorrow. It is the greatest psychedelic album of all time (really, it is), and quite possibly the first story-concept-album, just beating out the Who’s Tommy. The CD version has a couple of great singles tacked on as bonus tracks, some of their best songs: “Deflecting Grey,” “Walking Through My Dreams,” “Talking About the Good Times.”

Or just go to the band’s MySpace and listen to some old goodies.

But today’s post is no history lesson! No sir, because the Pretty Things are touring! Yes, they’re back, and they’re visiting Portland on March 24th, with a show at the Wonder Ballroom. This is the same day that Jens Lekman and Bon Iver have shows in town–which sucks, but I’m gonna have to skip those potentially terrific shows in favor of a rare chance to see one of the greatest bands of all time. And it’s pretty close to the original line-up! You’ve got Phil May and Dick Taylor, which is absolutely neccessary, then you’ve got Jon Povey and Wally Waller, who each joined the band in ‘67. And according to the MySpace page for their new single, Skip Allan (who replaced original wildman drummer Viv Prince in 1965) is onboard as well.
Nothing says class like pairing sandals with a suit.

“Wait. New single?” you ask.

MP3:
The Pretty Things - All Light Up

The song is not bad. It’s actually halfway decent! It’s a damn sight better than anything from the most recent records of the Stones or the Who, or any members of the Beatles for that matter.

But what is “All Light Up” about? (A quick visit to alllightup.com with tell you.) It’s a protest song! Against what? The ban against smoking in the pub! That’s right! We’re not going to take this oppression from Big Brother any longer! Light up a ciggie and Fight the Power!
Yes, it’s a ridiculously shrill and stupid argument. Still, the Pretty Things are back! And they’re coming to Portland!