The Nice

The Nice were a British progressive rock trio who operated between 1967 and 1970, serving as a crucial bridge between psychedelic pop and the ambitious keyboard-driven rock of the 1970s. Formed initially as a backing band for soul singer P.P. Arnold, the group comprised Keith Emerson on keyboards, Lee Jackson on bass and vocals, and Brian Davison on drums. Emerson's theatrical approach to the Hammond organ, including physically assaulting the instrument on stage, became their signature spectacle.

Their music blended classical adaptations with jazz improvisation and rock aggression. Albums like Ars Longa Vita Brevis (1968) and Five Bridges (1970) demonstrated their willingness to incorporate orchestral arrangements and extended suites, anticipating prog rock's grandiosity. Their reworking of Leonard Bernstein's "America" sparked controversy and a cease-and-desist from the composer himself, cementing their reputation as provocateurs.

Though commercially modest compared to contemporaries, The Nice established the template for Emerson, Lake & Palmer and influenced countless keyboard-dominated acts. They represented British rock's intellectual aspirations during a period when pop music increasingly demanded to be taken seriously as art.