Pink Floyd - A Nice Pair 12" Vinyl Double LP Album

- Italian Release

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.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Nice Pair Italy

"A Nice Pair" Album Description:

In the vibrant era of the late 1960s, a musical revolution was underway, with iconic bands pushing the boundaries of conventional sound. Among these trailblazers, Pink Floyd emerged as pioneers, leaving an indelible mark on the psychedelic and progressive rock landscape. In this article, we delve into the significance of Pink Floyd's "A Nice Pair" 12" vinyl double LP album, particularly its Italian release on the EMI label with the catalog number 3C 154-50203.

Released in Italy in the years 1967-1968, "A Nice Pair" is a compilation album that combines Pink Floyd's first two albums, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" and "A Saucerful of Secrets." This unique amalgamation offers listeners a captivating journey through the band's early experimental and groundbreaking work.

The Italian release on EMI, identified by the catalog number 3C 154-50203, stands as a testament to the global reach and influence of Pink Floyd's music. During this period, vinyl records were the primary medium for consuming music, and the meticulous production of "A Nice Pair" in the Italian market reflected the band's rising international prominence.

EMI, a renowned record label, played a crucial role in bringing Pink Floyd's innovative sound to audiences worldwide. The inclusion of the 1967-1968 Made in Italy imprint not only signifies the geographical origin of this particular release but also underscores the flourishing global demand for Pink Floyd's music during this transformative period in the music industry.

The cover art and packaging of "A Nice Pair" add an aesthetic dimension to the overall experience. The album cover, with its distinctive design, captures the essence of Pink Floyd's psychedelic and surreal style, characteristic of the era. This visual appeal, combined with the high-quality vinyl production, contributes to the album's status as a collector's item for enthusiasts of both music and art.

Album Summary: 

Pink Floyd's two best records: "Piper at the Gates of Dawn" and "Saucerful of Secrets" combined into a single gatefold album

Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design
UNCENSORED front cover
Includes the original custom inner sleeves

Music Genre: Psychedelic, Acid, Progressive Rock Music 

Album 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:

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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.

Record Label & Catalognr:

 EMI 3C 154-50203 (15450203)

Media Format:

 12" Double LP 

Year and Country:

  1967-1968 Made in Italy
Band Members and Musicians on: Pink Floyd A Nice Pair
Complete Track Listing of: Pink Floyd A Nice Pair
    Record One: The Piper at The Gates of Dawn Side
  • Astronomy Domine 8:12
  • Lucifer Sam 3:07
  • Matilda Mother 3:08
  • Flaming 2:46
  • Pow R. Toc H.
  • Take Up Thy Stethoscope and Walk 3:05
  • Interstellar Overdrive 9:41
  • The Gnome 2:13
  • Chapter 24 3:42
  • The Scarecrow 2:11
  • Bike 3:21
    Record Two: Saucerful of Secrets
  • Let There Be More Light (Roger Waters) 5:38
  • Remember a Day (Rick Wright) 4:33
  • Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun (Roger Waters) 5:28
  • Corporal Clegg (Roger Waters) 4:13
  • A Saucerful of Secrets (David Gilmour/Roger Waters/Rick Wright/Nick Mason) 11:57
  • See-Saw (Rick Wright) 4:36
  • Jugband Blues 3:00
Album cover photos of : Pink Floyd A Nice Pair
Photo of Front Cover 
High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Nice Pair Italy  
Photo of Album's Back Cover  
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Photo of Pink Floyd on the inner page
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Photo of Pink Floyd on the inner page
High Resolution Photo #4 PINK FLOYD Nice Pair Italy  
Photo of Record Label 
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Photo of Record Label 
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 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Index of PINK FLOYD's Nice Pair Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (France) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (France 154) album front cover

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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PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (France 2nd Release) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (France 2nd Release) album front cover

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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PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Germany) album front cover

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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PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Gt Britain) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Gt Britain) album front cover

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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PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Italy) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Italy) album front cover

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.

Learn more
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Sweden) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - Nice Pair (Sweden) album front cover

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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