When EMI snuck out The Pretty Things’ SF Sorrow in pre-Christmas 1968, it was double-eclipsed by landmark albums from The Beatles and Stones, but later acknowledged as one of the true epochal works to come out of the frivolous 60s: rock’s first (and best) opera. Telling Sebastian Sorrow’s poignant life story from birth to death, its evocative lyrics were brilliantly illustrated by a song cycle which took psych into cinematic new realms later abused by prog.
The Pretties’ Phil May and Dick Taylor instantly gave their blessing to the marvellous Fruits de Mer label recruiting a bevy of today’s artists to recreate their masterpiece in its entirety; they’ve been interviewed for Frank Suchomel’s spectacular gatefold sleeve, supply a live recording of Loneliest Person, even coined the project’s name.
Almost amazingly, after Chicago’s The Luck Of Eden Hall announce SF Sorrow Is Born, each lovingly-crafted new version hits the right balance between astute replication and personal interpretation, names including Sidewalk Society, Langor, Senrab Mendips, Jay Tausig, The Gathering Grey, King Penguin and The Loons. Highlights include Earthling Society’s guitar-driven flight paths on I See You and the dark cello lament of The Seventh Ring Of Saturn’s Death, while Sky Picnic and Hi-Fiction Science add a female vocal perspective. A remarkable labour of love limited to 700 coloured vinyl copies.
