The Pretty Things

The Profile

The Pretty Things are a British rock band formed in London in 1963 by singer Phil May and guitarist Dick Taylor (an early member of the Rolling Stones). Emerging with raw R&B singles, they evolved into psychedelic pioneers with S.F. Sorrow (1968), often cited among the first rock operas, and followed with the expansive Parachute (1970).

Formed: London, 1963. Founders: Phil May, Dick Taylor. Known for early R&B hits and for S.F. Sorrow (1968), frequently regarded as one of the first rock operas/concept albums. Continued into the 1970s with Parachute (1970). Also recorded library music as Electric Banana.

Three enthusiastic reviews trace The Pretty Things from raw R&B energy to psychedelic storytelling. Get the Picture? is hailed for its urgency and fuzzed garage bite, while S.F. Sorrow is praised as a pioneering concept album. Parachute follows with acoustic-to-electric contrasts and reflective themes. Overall verdict: vital, colorful, and underrated 60s British rock.