Soft Machine and Black Friday

Soft Machine, a pioneering British psychedelic rock band from the Canterbury scene, is known for its fusion of progressive rock and jazz. Key members included Robert Wyatt, Kevin Ayers, and Mike Ratledge. Famous albums include *Third* and *Fourth*. They toured the U.S. with Jimi Hendrix and collaborated with musicians like Andy Summers and Elton Dean, evolving through various lineups and styles over decades. Their 2018 revival with 1970s members John Marshall, John Etheridge, and Roy Babbington resulted in acclaimed tours and albums.