A Tribute to Died Pretty

We were recently saddened by the news that legendary Sydney band Died Pretty have had to cancel their October concerts in Melbourne at the National Theatre in St kilda.

Unfortunately lead singer Ron Peno and drummer Chris Welsh are both battling cancer so it looks like Died Pretty may be retiring with an average of 100+.

I only saw them play twice over the last forty years. The first time was 1993 at a post footy season trip in Hobart. Joined by team mate and fellow lover of Australian independent music Tim Harrington, we went to the University of Tasmania where the band played the entire classic Doughboy Hollow album.

It was an unforgettable night witnessing a band in peak form. I was told by a friend in Sydney that they could have the occasional ‘off’ night, usually caused by the enigmatic and charismatic Peno. Not this night. They were incredibly tight and we left the venue buzzing.

The second time was about six years ago at The Croxton Bandroom in Melbourne where they supported Radio Birdman. I thought it would be an educational opportunity for my daughters so I dragged them along!

Again they were superb and Ron had seemingly recovered from his first bout with throat cancer. Alas it has returned and our thoughts are very much with Ron and Chris at this tough time.

Died Pretty were formed in 1983, and developed a unique sound. It’s big, demands space and deserves to be turned up. Lots of powerful but intricate guitar from Brett Myers and keyboards from John Brunetti and John Hoey overlay many of the songs and the rhythm section of Chris Welsh with Dr Steve Clark are awesome.

Their albums Free Dirt and Doughboy Hollow are in any list of the greatest Australian albums made, and their other releases are crackers also. I cringe when I see shows like The Voice and judges saying things like, “you’re a superstar” to the poor delusional contestants.

If I was a judge , I would simply say, “please stop screaming like a banshee, go listen to Died Pretty and come back with your thoughts on whether you think you’re a superstar or not.”

If you’re not familiar with Died Pretty these are a few tracks which I hope you enjoy from this criminally ignored Australian band. Fingers crossed we see them again

Winterland from their first album Free Dirt.