PINK FLOYD - A Nice Pair 12" 2lP Vinyl Album
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"A Nice Pair" Album Description: There are a few differences between the U.S. and UK issues on the first disc of this compilation. In the U.S. Harvest Records and its distributor Capitol Records reconstructed their edition from tapes that had been previously altered for the debut 1967 U.S. album Pink Floyd (the original U.S. title for Piper) and other recordings, which were cut from the U.K version. As explained in a note on the back cover of the U.S. edition of A Nice Pair, songs dropped from the U.S. 1967 Pink Floyd album, "Flaming", "Astronomy Domine" and "Bike", are restored for this re-issue. However, some of the restored songs appear in versions that are different from the U.K. "Piper" release: the eight-minute live Ummagumma recording of "Astronomy Domine" replaces the original four-minute studio recording; "Interstellar Overdrive" fades out slightly early (as it did on the U.S. debut album) and adds a few seconds of silence before "The Gnome", rather than using a segue between these songs as found on the UK version; and "Flaming" is an alternate mix and edit which previously appeared on a U.S. single, and the only track to appear on this album in mono. In later pressings, the correct stereo version of "Flaming" was restored, while the other songs continued to appear in the versions described here. The American version of this album was also released in Canada. |
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Music Genre: Psych, Acid, Prog, Rock |
Production Information: Produced by Norman Smith Norman Smith, a renowned record producer and sound engineer, left an indelible mark on the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. While his contributions to various artists were significant, his collaboration with Pink Floyd stands out as a testament to his visionary approach. With his expertise and innovative techniques, Smith played a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive sound and success of one of rock music's most influential bands. Early Life and Career Beginnings: Born on 22 February 1923, in Edmonton, North London, England, Norman Smith developed a deep passion for music from an early age. After serving in World War II as a pilot, he channeled his musical aspirations and joined EMI Studios in London as a sound engineer in the 1950s. Smith's technical prowess and dedication to his craft propelled him into the spotlight. Collaboration with Pink Floyd: Smith's journey with Pink Floyd began in the late 1960s when he was assigned to produce their debut album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" (1967). Recognizing the band's experimental and progressive inclinations, Smith seamlessly merged his production skills with their innovative musical vision. "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" remains an iconic album that captured the essence of Pink Floyd's psychedelic sound. Smith's meticulous attention to detail and willingness to push boundaries resulted in a sonically rich and immersive experience. His expertise in achieving distinctive guitar tones and capturing the band's atmospheric compositions helped establish Pink Floyd's artistic identity. Following the success of their debut, Smith continued to collaborate with Pink Floyd on their sophomore album, "A Saucerful of Secrets" ( 1968). Once again, Smith's production finesse enabled the band to explore new sonic territories. He skillfully balanced the band's evolving experimental tendencies with their signature sound, creating a cohesive and captivating album. Smith's contribution to Pink Floyd's early discography extended beyond production. He also provided backing vocals and even played piano on some tracks. His versatility as a musician complemented his role as a producer, further enhancing the creative synergy between Smith and the band. Legacy and Impact: Norman Smith's work with Pink Floyd showcased his ability to understand and amplify an artist's vision. His collaboration with the band during their formative years played a crucial role in shaping their sound and setting them on a path to become one of the most influential rock acts of all time. While Smith eventually transitioned away from production and pursued a solo career, his legacy as a pioneering producer remains significant. His contributions to Pink Floyd's early albums laid the foundation for the band's subsequent success and influenced the development of progressive rock as a genre. Norman Smith's commitment to innovation and his unwavering dedication to capturing the essence of an artist's vision made him a revered figure in the music industry. His work with Pink Floyd exemplifies his ability to push boundaries and create timeless recordings that continue to inspire generations of musicians and producers. Norman Smith's extraordinary collaboration with Pink Floyd has left an enduring impact on the band's legacy and the evolution of rock music as a whole. His innovative production techniques and artistic sensibilities continue to be celebrated and appreciated by music enthusiasts worldwide. |
Album Packaging: Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design, Original custom inner sleeves with artwork |
| Record Label: EMI Harvest SHSP 4031 (YAX 3419), SHSP 4032 (YAX 3633) |
| Media Format: 12" Double LP |
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Year and Country: 1967, 1968 Made in Gt Britain |
Band Members and Musicians on: PINK FLOYD - A Nice Pair, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, A Saucerful of Secrets |
Roger Waters Journey into the mind of Roger Waters! Explore the complexities of Pink Floyd's creative powerhouse. Uncover his profound lyrics and the stories behind his iconic albums .
Richard Wright uncover the musical heart of Pink Floyd! Explore Richard Wright's captivating journey, from weaving ethereal keyboard textures to crafting timeless melodies.
Nick Mason delve into the life of him! From driving Pink Floyd's iconic rhythm to his passions for racing and music production. Discover the man behind the beat.
Syd Barrett Pink Floyd's original genius, whose brilliance was overshadowed by madness, uncover his enigmatic life
Complete Track Listing of: PINK FLOYD - A Nice Pair, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, A Saucerful of Secrets |
Photos of the LP's cover: PINK FLOYD - A Nice Pair, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, A Saucerful of Secrets |
| Photo of Front Cover |
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Harvest 2C 154 - 50.203 ( 154-50203) / C 154 - 50.203 , 1973 , France
Pink Floyd's "A Nice Pair" French double LP, featuring "The Piper At The Gates of Dawn" and "Saucerful of Secrets," is a collector's gem. The gatefold cover with an uncensored front, original inner sleeves, and Norman Smith's production spotlight a pivotal era in the late '60s. A harmonious blend of psychedelic rock and progressive elements, it stands as a sonic testament to Pink Floyd's avant-garde spirit and musical evolution.
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Harvest 2C 156-50.203 , 1973 , France
Pink Floyd's 1973 French release "Nice Pair" 2LP vinyl, a captivating relic, omits stereo labels, adding allure. Uncensored covers enhance its mystique. Featuring the band's initial masterpieces, "The Piper At The Gates of Dawn" and "Saucerful of Secrets," it's a time capsule. Norman Smith's production echoes in its soundscape. Harvest-labeled, with code 2C 156-50.203, and "Made in France," it's a globally cherished testament to Pink Floyd's early brilliance.
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HARVEST 1C 148-50 203 / 1C 172-50 204 , 1974 , Germany
Pink Floyd's "A Nice Pair" German release, cataloged as HARVEST 1C 148-50 203 / 1C 172-50 204, is a landmark compilation combining "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" and "A Saucerful of Secrets." This uncensored edition provides an unfiltered experience of the band's early, experimental sound. Released during a pivotal period in the late 1960s, it encapsulates Pink Floyd's evolution and enduring influence on progressive rock.
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EMI Harvest SHSP 4031 SHSP 4032 , 1967-1968 , Gt Britain
Released in 1973, "A Nice Pair" is a significant 2LP vinyl album featuring Pink Floyd's debut, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," and "A Saucerful of Secrets." This British pressing showcases the band's evolution from psychedelic origins to a more experimental sound. With its iconic cover art, the album captures a transitional phase in Pink Floyd's journey, making it a collector's gem symbolizing the band's musical metamorphosis during that era.
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EMI 3C 154-50203 , 1967-1968 , Italy
Pink Floyd's "A Nice Pair," a 1967-1968 Italian release on EMI (catalog number 3C 154-50203), melds the band's inaugural albums, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" and "A Saucerful of Secrets." This vinyl gem encapsulates Pink Floyd's pioneering psychedelic and progressive rock sound. The Italian imprint symbolizes the band's international impact during a transformative period, making "A Nice Pair" a cherished collector's item, both musically and visually.
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EMI-Harvest 7C 172-50203 , , Sweden
Pink Floyd's "Nice Pair" Swedish release, featuring "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" and "A Saucerful of Secrets," epitomizes the band's experimental era. The gatefold cover and unique EMI-Harvest catalog number (7C 172-50203) highlight its visual and auditory allure. Produced in Sweden, the LP's global impact underscores Pink Floyd's pioneering role in progressive rock. A sought-after collector's item, this vinyl encapsulates the band's innovation within the dynamic late 1960s and early 1970s music scene.
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