For over fifty years, The Pretty Things have proudly, unapologetically and righteously scorched their own, unique trail through contemporary music. A half-century (plus) of the raunchiest white-boy rhythm and blues, of punch-ups, dazzling highs and epic struggles, of innovation and exultation, lauded by their peers, vilified by authority, a crucial influence on successive generations of acts, One of the most under-rated bands in the history of music finally get the treatment they richly deserve. Never afforded the recognition given to other bands, The Pretty Things consistently delivered quality output, The Pretty Things make it to the mid twenty teens with mojo intact and edge unblunted. It is with great pleasure that The career of this epochal British rock ‘n’ roll band is justly celebrated by way of “Bouquets From A Cloudy Sky”, a lavish multi-media Box Set that contains the following: 11 Studio albums on CD in gatefold digi-sleeves, including 42 bonus tracks. 2 ‘Rarities CD’s with 45 previously unreleased demos, alternate versions, live recordings, sessions and outtakes. 2 DVDs with new documentary “Midnight to Six” 1965 to 1970 produced by Reelin’ In The Years, plus “S.F. Sorrow Live at Abbey Road”, The Pretty Things on Film, promo videos and interviews. A 10″ Replica ‘ACETATE’ featuring ‘Defecting Grey’ full length demo & ‘Turn My Head’ (studio version), plus 2 other previously unreleased tracks.
Includes a lavishly ILLUSTRATED 100 PAGE Hardback Book with comprehensive band history by Mike Stax (Ugly Things), plus rare photos and memorabilia. FAMILY TREE & TESTIMONIAL POSTERS tracing the band from Little Boy Blue & The Blue Boys and The Rolling Stones to the present day and featuring hand-written messages from Pretty Things past and present. Court Case History excerpts from confidential legal files from the band’s battles to retrieve their rights and songs. BRAND NEW ART PRINT By Phil May the original of which will be randomly placed in one lucky set!*
The big plus for this box set is the DVD documentary contained within. It’s a fascinating watch and includes the priceless footage of the band at Blokker in Holland kicking up a storm on stage and causing a riot off it! The sight of lunatic original drummer Viv Prince prowling around with his drumsticks while John Stax stands on top of the piano blowing a mean harp perfectly captures the early incarnation of the Pretty Things more than words ever could. Elsewhere, there are some fantastic live performances of tracks from the ‘Parachute’ album and lots of interviews with various band members. It only goes up to 1971 so doesn’t cover the later albums but as the band broke up for a few years after that it’s a logical place to stop.
The Pretty Things were the biggest influence on us… they invented garage bands.” – Joey Ramone “The Pretty Things completely bent my head.” – Noel Gallagher “The Pretty Things made the Stones look tame.” – David Gilmour “David Bowie worshipped Phil (May) – Phil had to write his telephone number in David Bowie’s book, and it was under ‘G’ for God!” – Dick Taylor, The Pretty Things
This Box Set includes 11 Studio Albums, 2 Rarities CDs, 2 DVDs, 10″ Replica Acetate, Hardback Book, ‘Bouguets From A Cloudy Sky’ is the ultimate and complete Pretty Things Collection Box Set. Produced for their 50th Anniversary with the full co-operation of the dirtiest, hairiest, nastiest, loudest, most controversial and influential band the world has ever seen.
The Fat Angel Sings 