Description
Philippe Debarge With The Pretty Things – Rock St Trop – 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Released decades after it was originally recorded, Rock St. Trop captures one of the more unusual stories connected to The Pretty Things, one of the most influential British bands to emerge from the 1960s rhythm-and-blues and psychedelic rock scene. The recordings date back to 1969, when the band found themselves in the south of France working with Philippe Debarge, a wealthy French music fan whose enthusiasm for rock music led to a short-lived but fascinating collaboration.
At the time, The Pretty Things were already known for pushing creative boundaries. They had built a reputation through gritty rhythm-and-blues records in the mid-1960s before moving into more experimental territory with albums like S.F. Sorrow, widely considered one of the earliest rock operas. During their stay in Saint-Tropez, the band began recording informal sessions with Debarge providing lead vocals.
Debarge was not a professional singer in the traditional sense, but his passion for the music and his friendship with the band created a relaxed environment where creativity flowed freely. The resulting recordings feel spontaneous and playful, capturing a group of musicians experimenting without the pressures of a major studio release.
Rock St. Trop blends psychedelic rock, blues, and garage influences, reflecting the musical direction The Pretty Things were exploring during the late 1960s. Guitars carry a loose, swirling energy, while the rhythm section maintains a laid-back groove that gives the songs a jam-session feel. The production is raw and unpolished, which adds to the charm of the recordings.
Debarge’s vocals bring a unique character to the material. While his style is less refined than that of professional rock singers, his enthusiasm and personality give the songs an offbeat appeal that fits well with the relaxed atmosphere of the sessions.
For many years these recordings remained largely unheard, circulating only as a bit of rock folklore among collectors and fans of the band. When they were eventually released, they offered a fascinating snapshot of The Pretty Things during a transitional moment in their career.
Rock St. Trop ultimately stands as an unusual and intriguing side chapter in the history of The Pretty Things. More than a conventional album, it feels like a musical postcard from a brief creative escape—an example of musicians following inspiration wherever it might lead, even if that path began with a rock enthusiast in the French Riviera.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Hello, How Do You Do
You Might Even Say
Alexander
Send You With Loving
You’re Running You And Me
Peace
Eagles Son
Graves Of Grey
New Day
It’ll Never Be Me
I’m Checking Out
All Gone Now
