- GT BRITAIN 4th Release
In 1970, Pink Floyd unveiled their iconic "Atom Heart Mother" 12" Vinyl LP Album with the catalog number Harvest SHVL 781 in Great Britain. This 4th release marked a significant contribution to the music scene of the time. The album, showcasing the band's experimental prowess, reflects the cultural and artistic landscape of the era, solidifying its place in the progressive rock movement.
Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" stands as a testament to the band's unparalleled ability to craft immersive and groundbreaking sonic experiences. Released in 1970, this iconic album remains a cornerstone of progressive rock, showcasing the band's creative prowess and willingness to push the boundaries of musical expression. In this article, we delve into the fourth UK pressing of "Atom Heart Mother", exploring its album cover, inner sleeves, record labels, production details, musicians, and track-listing, while reflecting on the album's significance in the pantheon of rock history.
A Sonic Journey
"Atom Heart Mother" unfolds like a captivating sonic journey, encompassing a diverse range of musical styles and moods. The album's compositions are characterized by intricate instrumental arrangements, ethereal soundscapes, and thought-provoking lyrics. Pink Floyd's trademark use of space, sound effects, and experimentation creates an otherworldly atmosphere that captivates listeners from start to finish.
The Album Cover and Artwork
The fourth UK issue of "Atom Heart Mother" features an iconic album cover that has become synonymous with Pink Floyd's distinctive visual aesthetic. The cover art, designed by Hipgnosis, depicts a serene countryside landscape with a simple cow on the front – a surreal and enigmatic image that perfectly encapsulates the album's juxtaposition of the ordinary and the extraordinary.
Inner Sleeves and Record Labels
The inner sleeves of the UK 4th issue LP provide an added layer of visual intrigue, often containing lyrics, additional artwork, or band photographs. These elements contribute to the immersive experience of owning and exploring the physical LP.
The record labels themselves bear the Harvest and EMI insignia, further connecting the album to its British roots and marking its place within the broader musical landscape of the time.
Production Details and Musicianship
"Atom Heart Mother" was recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London, adding to its mystique and aligning it with other iconic albums produced at the same studio. The album showcases the remarkable musicianship of Pink Floyd members, including David Gilmour, Roger Waters, Richard Wright, and Nick Mason, who skillfully navigate through intricate arrangements and instrumental passages.
Track-Listing: A Sonic Odyssey Unveiled
1. "Atom Heart Mother": The album's titular track serves as a sprawling and ambitious opener, clocking in at over 23 minutes. Its multi-part structure weaves together orchestral elements, rock instrumentation, and avant-garde experimentation, taking listeners on a mesmerizing journey through various musical landscapes.
2. "If": This introspective and melodic track offers a moment of reflection amidst the album's grandiose compositions. Its delicate acoustic guitar work and emotive vocals create a poignant contrast to the surrounding tracks.
3. "Summer '68": A glimpse into the band's softer side, this song combines soothing vocals with intricate piano melodies, capturing a sense of nostalgia and longing.
4. "Fat Old Sun": Featuring David Gilmour's soulful vocals and expressive guitar work, this track radiates warmth and showcases the band's ability to evoke emotion through their music.
5. "Alan's Psychedelic Breakfast": The album concludes with a three-part suite that invites listeners into the mundane yet oddly captivating routines of an everyday breakfast. This experimental piece perfectly encapsulates Pink Floyd's willingness to challenge conventions and push artistic boundaries.
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Music Genre: Acid Psych Prog Rock Music |
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Album Production Information: Produced by Norman Smith and Pink Floyd 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. Recorded at the Abbey Road Studios, London |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Harvest SHVL 781 |
| Packaging: Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages. |
| Media Format: 12" Full-Length Vinyl LP Gramophone Record Album weight: 280 gram |
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Year and Country: 1970 Made in Gt Britain |
Band Members and Musicians on: PINK FLOYD - Atom Heart Mother UK |
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Complete Track Listing of: PINK FLOYD - Atom Heart Mother UK |
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Album cover photos of : PINK FLOYD - Atom Heart Mother UK |
| Photo of Pink Floyd Album's Front Cover |
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This is the cover of Pink Floyd’s 1970 album Atom Heart Mother. The artwork is iconic for its simplicity and lack of traditional band or album identification. It features a lone cow, named Lulubelle III, standing in a green field, captured in an unembellished, pastoral scene. The cover design was created by the Hipgnosis studio, with photography by Storm Thorgerson. Notably, the band name and album title are entirely absent from the front cover, which was a bold move that reinforced the album’s conceptual nature and Pink Floyd’s evolving experimental ethos. |
| Photo of Pink Floyd Album's Back Cover |
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| Photo of Pink Floyd Album's Inner Cover |
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| Photo of Pink Floyd Album's Inner Cover |
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Close-up Photo of Pink Floyd's Record Label
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This is the record label of Pink Floyd’s Atom Heart Mother, released in 1970. The label features the distinctive green and yellow design of EMI’s Harvest Records, with the iconic Harvest logo prominently displayed. The text ‘The Pink Floyd’ appears at the top, followed by the album title in bold. Additional details include the catalog number (SHVL 781) and production credits. The label indicates stereo format and provides publishing and copyright information. The vinyl’s origin, ‘Made in Gt. Britain,’ is printed at the bottom, with a fine-print warning regarding unauthorized performance and copying. |
Harvest SKAO-382 , 1970 , Canada
This Canadian 1970 release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" 12" Vinyl LP Album , can be identified with: Album front cover has PINK FLOYD and album title printed in italics. Harvest logo is printed right to it. Catalognr is printed below the album's title. Gatefold album cover.
Atom Heart Mother (Canada) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest SMAS 382 , 1970 , Canada
This page shows the release of Pink Floyd's Atom Heart Mother in its third Canadian Edition. A distinctive feature is the catalog number SMAS 382 imprinted on the record label, setting it apart from the catalog number on the album's front cover. This edition adds a nuanced touch to the timeless album, embodying the evolution and uniqueness within the chronicles of music history during its specific time period.
Atom Heart Mother (Canada 3rd Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest SHVL 781 U , 1970 , France
In the first French pressing of PINK FLOYD's "Atom Heart Mother," the album's front cover showcases the band's name prominently in the upper center, devoid of the album title. Meanwhile, in the upper left corner, essential catalog information is printed. This presentation encapsulates the unique aesthetic of this pressing, providing collectors and enthusiasts with a distinctive artifact from the time period.
Atom Heart Mother (France 1st Pressing) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest SHVL 781 / PM 261 , 1970 , France
The 1970 French release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" on 12" Vinyl LP features distinct design choices, including a catalog number in the top left corner and an absence of the band name and album title on the front cover. The gatefold design enhances the visual appeal. Representing the progressive rock era, this edition reflects artistic experimentation, providing collectors with a noteworthy piece from the evolving music scene of early 1970s Europe.
Atom Heart Mother (France) 12" Vinyl LP
Horzu Harvest SHZE 297 , 1970 , Germany
Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" HorZu Limited Edition, released exclusively for the German HorZu club in 1970, stands out for its minimalist cover, absent band and album details. Featuring the iconic HorZu logo on the inside cover and label, this edition embodies exclusivity. A prized possession for collectors, it encapsulates the transformative era of 1970s progressive rock, making each vinyl a coveted artifact from a bygone musical epoch.
Atom Heart Mother (HorZu Limited Edition) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest SHZE 297 , 1970 , Germany
The second release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" 12" Vinyl LP Album in Germany by HÖR ZU is marked by the HorZu Logo on the inside cover but lacks it on the record's label. The absence of the logo on the label is a noteworthy detail for collectors. This version, with its distinct features, adds a layer of intrigue to the album's history within the German music scene.
Atom Heart Mother (Germany HÖR ZU) 12" Vinyl LP
EMI Harvest 1C 062-04 550 , 1974 , Germany
The 1974 German release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" on 12" vinyl, identified by the EMI Harvest 1C 062-04 550 catalog number and the year imprinted near 9 o'clock on the yellow label, stands as a noteworthy artifact. The gatefold album cover and production showcase the band's influential contribution to the progressive rock era, making it a sought-after collector's item that reflects the musical zeitgeist of its time.
Atom Heart Mother (Germany 1st Pressing) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest 1C 072-04 550 , 1974 , Gernaby
In 1974, Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" saw its second release in Germany, contributing to the progressive music scene of the era. The 12" vinyl LP format showcased the band's innovative approach, aligning with the prevalent preferences of the time. The album's iconic cover art, featuring a surreal cow image, added to its mystique. This release in Germany marked a pivotal moment in Pink Floyd's journey and left an indelible mark on the global music landscape.
Atom Heart Mother (Germany 2nd Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest SHVL 781 , 1970 , Gt Britain
Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" 12" vinyl, 3rd release in Great Britain, is a collector's delight. With a gatefold cover featuring only a cow, it stands out for its minimalist design. The Green Harvest label, EMI logo, and the declaration "Made in GT Britain" on the vinyl add unique identifiers. Matrix codes SHVL 781 A3 / SHVL 781 B3 and catalog number Harvest SHVL 781 authenticate its 1970 release, making it a prized piece in the band's discography.
Atom Heart Mother (UK 3rd Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest SHVL 781 , 1970 , Gt Britain
In 1970, Pink Floyd unveiled their iconic "Atom Heart Mother" 12" Vinyl LP Album with the catalog number Harvest SHVL 781 in Great Britain. This 4th release marked a significant contribution to the music scene of the time. The album, showcasing the band's experimental prowess, reflects the cultural and artistic landscape of the era, solidifying its place in the progressive rock movement.
Atom Heart Mother (UK 4th Release) 12" Vinyl LP
EMI Harvest 3C 062-04550 , 1970 , Italy
The 1st Italian release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" on 12" vinyl LP, with catalog number EMI Harvest 3C 062-04550, showcases a distinctive gatefold design. Matrix codes "04550-A 26-10-70 I" and "04550-B 26-10-70 I" reveal production details. This 1970 edition embodies the era's vinyl culture, merging music and craftsmanship. A coveted item for collectors, it symbolizes the tangible artistry of a bygone musical epoch.
(Italy 1st Pressing) 12" Vinyl LP
EMI Harvest 3C 062-04550 , 1970 , Italy
The 1970 5th Italian release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" 12" Vinyl LP is a collector's gem. With a cover omitting band and album details, adorned with EMI and Harvest logos, it reflects the era's avant-garde design. The S.I.A.E. stamp on the record label adds a legal dimension. The gatefold design, showcasing artwork and photos, offers a unique, immersive experience, making this version a distinctive cultural artifact within the band's discography.
Atom Heart Mother (Italy 5th Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest 3C 064-04550 , 1970 , Italy
The Italian release of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" 12" LP Vinyl Album, featuring a minimalist front cover sans band name and album title, stands out in the progressive rock landscape. Distinguished by EMI and Harvest logos, matrix codes revealing production timelines, and a S.I.A.E. copyright stamp, it encapsulates the meticulous craftsmanship of the era. The gatefold design and internal artwork add visual depth, making this release a noteworthy contribution to the musical zeitgeist.
Atom Heart Mother (Italy 6th Release) 12" Vinyl LP
Harvest – 5C 062-04550, HÖR ZU – SHZE 297 , 1970 , Netherlands
Pink Floyd's 1970 "Atom Heart Mother" Netherlands Horzu Edition, distinguished by the HorZu logo on the gatefold cover, reflects the band's innovative spirit in the experimental early '70s music scene. With catalog numbers Harvest – 5C 062-04550 and HÖR ZU – SHZE 297, this vinyl release encapsulates the era's intersection of music and media. Its warm analog tones and meticulous production celebrate a unique chapter in music history, making it a prized collectible for enthusiasts.
Atom Heart Mother (Netherlands Horzu Edition) 12" Vinyl LP
Toshiba-EMI EMI EMS 80320 , 1970 , Japan
Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" Japanese release on Toshiba Records is a unique 12" Vinyl LP with a cover missing the band name and title. Notably, EMI and Harvest logos adorn thelower corners, emphasizing the collaboration with these labels. The catalog number, Toshiba-EMI EMI EMS 80320, distinguishes this version. Deviating from gatefold covers, it reflects the era's vinyl fascination, making it a coveted collector's item, capturing the essence of global music production in its time.
Atom Heart Mother (Japan Toshiba) 12" Vinyl LP
HARVEST EL 777001 , 1970 , Germany
The Swiss Edition of Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" presents a unique deviation with its singular cow cover photo, "Special Edition" declaration, and standard album format. Marked by catalog number HARVEST EL 777001, it stands out within the band's discography. Reflecting a meticulous design, this version encapsulates the era's innovative spirit, offering collectors and enthusiasts a distinct glimpse into Pink Floyd's creative evolution during the album's release period.
Atom Heart Mother (Special Edition Switzerland) 12" Vinyl LP
EMI-Harvest 777 001 (777001 / SHVL 781A), Special Edition , 1970 , Made in Gt Britain for export to Switzerland only
Pink Floyd's "Atom Heart Mother" 12" Vinyl LP, crafted in Great Britain and solely exported for >, epitomizes the band's 1970 sonic evolution. Breaking from psychedelic norms, the album introduces symphonic elements and a groundbreaking collaboration with the EMI Pops Orchestra. The Swiss edition's exclusive single-cow back cover distinguishes it, coupled with "Special Edition" labeling, enhancing its rarity and allure among collectors, encapsulating the era's musical experimentation.
Atom Heart Mother (Swiss Special Editon) 12" Vinyl LP