- French 1978 Re-issue
This French pressing of the "Piper At The Gates of Dawn" has the black & white painting by Syd Barrett on a grey background, while other countries' pressings have this painting on a white background. This French pressing is a 1978 re-issue of Piper At The Gates of Dawn
In the realm of iconic rock albums, Pink Floyd's debut masterpiece, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," holds a unique position. As we delve into the realm of vinyl enthusiasts and collectors, a particular gem emerges - the French 1978 re-issue of this groundbreaking album.
Released under the Columbia EMI label with the catalog number 2C 064-04.292, this French pressing distinguishes itself with a distinctive black & white painting by the enigmatic Syd Barrett set against a grey background. This subtle yet significant variation sets it apart from pressings in other countries, where the same artwork graces a white background. The choice of this cover design was not arbitrary; it was a deliberate aesthetic decision, reflecting the artistic nuances of the era.
The year 1978 marked a crucial period in the history of music, witnessing the resurgence of interest in classic albums and the vinyl format. The re-issue of "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" during this time served as a testament to the enduring allure of Pink Floyd's early work. Norman Smith, the esteemed producer, played a pivotal role in ensuring the fidelity of the album's sound, while recording engineer Peter Bown meticulously captured the nuances that make this album a sonic journey.
The visual elements of the album are not to be overlooked, with photographs by Vic Singh and a rear cover design crafted by none other than Syd Barrett himself. The synergy of musical prowess and visual artistry creates a holistic experience that transcends the boundaries of time.
Examining the record label details reveals the distinctiveness of the French 1978 re-issue. The light blue to white gradient background adorned with black lettering exudes a sense of sophistication, a visual representation of the craftsmanship invested in this edition. The phrase "Made in France" imprinted on the label not only denotes the origin but also adds a touch of authenticity to this collector's item.
For vinyl enthusiasts and Pink Floyd devotees alike, acquiring the French 1978 re-issue of "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" is not merely obtaining a record; it is a journey back in time. It is a celebration of an era when music was not only heard but experienced, and album art was not just a cover but a canvas for artistic expression.
| Music Genre: Psych, Acid, Prog, Rock |
| 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: 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. Recording engineer Peter Bown, Photos: Vic Singh, Rear cover design: Syd Barrett |
Record Label & Catalognr: Columbia EMI 2C 064-04.292 (Light Blue to white gradient background with Black Lettering) |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone |
Year and Country: 1978 Made in France |
Band Members and Musicians on: Pink Floyd The Piper At The Gates of Dawn |
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Complete Track Listing of: Pink Floyd The Piper At The Gates of Dawn |
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Album cover photos of : Pink Floyd The Piper At The Gates of Dawn |
| Photo of Front Cover |
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| Photo of Album's Back Cover |
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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 ). |
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The French 1978 re-issue of Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" LP stands out with its unique black & white Syd Barrett artwork on a grey background, a departure from other global pressings. Produced by Norman Smith, the album's vinyl resurgence in 1978 marked a significant era in music history. With meticulous sound engineering and artistic design, this collector's item encapsulates the timeless essence of Pink Floyd's groundbreaking debut.
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EMI Columbia SCX 6157 , 1967 , Gt Britain
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Pink Floyd's 1967 debut album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," is a sonic masterpiece symbolizing the era's cultural shifts. Produced by Norman Smith and engineered by Peter Bown, it showcases Syd Barrett's genius. Identified by the EMI white boxed logo and "Made in Gt Britain" label, this 12" Vinyl LP is a collector's gem, embodying the psychedelic spirit of its time.
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