Ars Longa Vita Brevis

Immediate Records celebrates its 60th anniversary with a special reissue of The Nice’s innovative second album, presented in stunning remastered quality and featuring striking color x-ray marbled vinyl 

Originally released in 1968, this recording propelled progressive rock into unexplored realms, merging psychedelic rock, jazz elements, and classical influences to shape the genre’s trajectory into the 1970s. Initially recorded with the original lineup of Keith Emerson, Lee Jackson, Davy O'List, and Brian Davison, the album took a transformative turn when O'List departed mid-session, leaving The Nice to complete it as a commanding, organ-driven trio.

Side One continues the path set by the band’s debut, The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack, featuring shorter, pop psychedelic compositions interwoven with avant-garde elements. Tracks such as Daddy Where Did I Come From and Little Arabella highlight Emerson’s groundbreaking keyboard layering, incorporating piano and Hammond organ textures. Meanwhile, Side Two unveils the album’s true centerpiece—the epic title track Ars Longa Vita Brevis, an audacious 19-minute fusion of rock trio and full symphonic orchestra, marking one of the earliest and most innovative collaborations between rock and classical music.

TRACK LIST LP

SIDE A

1. Daddy Where Did I Come From
2. Little Arabella
3. Happy Freuds
4. Intermezzo from the Karelia Suite
5. Don Edito El Gruva 

SIDE B

1. Ars Longa Vita Brevis - Symphony for Group and Orchestra Prelude
2. 1st Movement: Awakening
3. 2nd Movement: Realisation
4. 3rd Movement: Acceptance “BRANDENBURGER”
5. 4th Movement: Denial
6. Coda-Extension To The Big Not