Pink Floyd - The Piper At The Gates of Dawn 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Gt Britain 5th release SCX 6157

Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" 5th UK release, circa 1967, encapsulates the psychedelic era's essence. Distinguished by a yellow and black band name on the cover and the absence of "Made in Gt Britain," this vinyl LP is a collector's gem. With catalog number SCX 6157 / YAX 3419, it reflects collaborative brilliance, boasting production by Norman Smith, engineering by Peter Bown, and design contributions from Vic Singh and Syd Barrett. A prized artifact, it symbolizes a transformative period in rock history.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK5

"The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" Album Description:

In the realm of iconic rock albums, Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" stands as a timeless masterpiece, capturing the essence of the psychedelic era. This article delves into the significance of the 5th UK release of the album, exploring its distinctive features and the broader context of its production.

Context of the Times

Released in 1967, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" emerged during a transformative period in music history. The late '60s marked a psychedelic revolution, with artists pushing the boundaries of sound and expression. Pink Floyd, led by the enigmatic Syd Barrett, played a pivotal role in shaping the psychedelic rock genre. The album's release aligns with the burgeoning counterculture and the exploration of unconventional artistic avenues.

Distinctive Features of the 5th UK Release

This particular 12" Vinyl LP, designated as the 5th issue of the UK version, possesses unique characteristics that distinguish it within the discography. Notably, the band name "Pink Floyd" on the album's front cover is printed in yellow with black, offering a visual departure from previous releases. The absence of the "Made in Gt Britain" inscription on the record label adds an intriguing layer, contributing to the distinctiveness of this pressing.

Catalognr and Production Credits

Delving into the specifics, the catalog number Columbia SCX 6157 / YAX 3419 serves as a crucial identifier for collectors and enthusiasts. Produced by Norman Smith and engineered by Peter Bown, the album reflects the collaborative efforts of a talented team. The inclusion of credits for the photos by Vic Singh and the rear cover design by Syd Barrett adds a personal touch, providing insights into the creative minds behind the album's visual elements.

Legacy and Collectibility

As a testament to its enduring appeal, the 5th UK release of "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" remains a sought-after item among vinyl collectors. The scarcity of the "Made in Gt Britain" label and the distinctive cover design contribute to its allure. Beyond its musical brilliance, this edition encapsulates a moment in music history, making it a prized possession for those passionate about vinyl culture and the evolution of rock.

Vinyl Identification 101: All You Need to Know
To identify this particular pressing:
  • Band-name "Pink Floyd" on the album front cover is printed in Yellow with black.
  • Record label is missing the text "Made in Gt Britain"
  • Catalognr: Columbia SCX 6157 / YAX 3419

Music Genre:

Psychedelic Acid Progressive 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:

more...

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 SCX 6157 / YAX 3419

Media Format:

12" Vinyl LP Gramophone

Year and Country:

1967 Made in Gt Britain
Band Members and Musicians on: Pink Floyd The Piper At The Gates of Dawn

Complete Track Listing of: Pink Floyd The Piper At The Gates of Dawn
    Side One:
  1. Astronomy Domine
  2. Lucifer Sam
  3. Matilda Mother
  4. Flaming
  5. Pow R. Toc H.
  6. Take up thy stethoscope and walk
    Side Two:
  1. Interstellar Overdrive
  2. The Gnome
  3. Chapter 24
  4. The Scarecrow
  5. Bike
Album cover photos of : Pink Floyd The Piper At The Gates of Dawn
Photo of Front Cover 
High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK5  
Photo of Album's Back Cover  
High Resolution Photo #2 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK5  
Photo of Record Label 
High Resolution Photo #3 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK5  
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 The Piper At The Gates of Dawn Vinyl Album Index Discography and Album Cover Gallery
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Columbia SCX 6157 / YAX 3419 , 1967 , Gt Britain

Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" 5th UK release, circa 1967, encapsulates the psychedelic era's essence. Distinguished by a yellow and black band name on the cover and the absence of "Made in Gt Britain," this vinyl LP is a collector's gem. With catalog number SCX 6157 / YAX 3419, it reflects collaborative brilliance, boasting production by Norman Smith, engineering by Peter Bown, and design contributions from Vic Singh and Syd Barrett. A prized artifact, it symbolizes a transformative period in rock history.

Learn more
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