PINK FLOYD The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK) Album Cover Gallery & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information #vinylrecords

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

In the realm of iconic music, Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" stands as a testament to the band's groundbreaking exploration of psychedelic, acid, and progressive rock. The 12" Vinyl LP Album, specifically the UK 3rd release, is a cherished artifact for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Let's delve into the significance of this release within its time period's context and its contribution to the ever-evolving landscape of music production.

Released under the catalog number EMI Columbia SCX 6157, this particular pressing of "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" holds distinctive features that set it apart as the 3rd UK re-issue. Notably absent is the "Subject to Sales" tax after "Made in Gt Britain" at the bottom of the label, a key identifier for aficionados seeking authenticity in their collections. Additionally, the EMI logo is printed only once near the bottom of the label, further distinguishing this edition.

The album, originally released in 1967, arrived during a tumultuous period of musical transformation. The late 1960s saw the emergence of various genres, with psychedelic and progressive rock pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms. Pink Floyd, led by the creative genius of Syd Barrett, played a pivotal role in shaping the psychedelic sound that defined the era.

"The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" marked Pink Floyd's debut studio album and was a testament to Syd Barrett's unique songwriting and experimental approach to music. The album's whimsical and surrealistic themes, coupled with Barrett's distinctive guitar work and lyrical ingenuity, garnered critical acclaim. Tracks like "Astronomy Domine" and "Interstellar Overdrive" showcased the band's avant-garde style, contributing to the burgeoning psychedelic movement.

The absence of the "Subject to Sales" tax on this 3rd UK re-issue becomes a fascinating detail when viewed against the backdrop of the socio-economic changes occurring in Britain during the late 1960s. The modification in tax status reflects the evolving economic landscape that impacted various industries, including the music business.

In terms of production, the 12" Vinyl LP format played a crucial role in delivering the sonic experience of Pink Floyd's masterpiece. The analog warmth and rich sound quality of vinyl added an extra layer to the psychedelic and progressive elements embedded in the album. Each crackle and pop on the record became a unique part of the listening experience, contributing to the overall nostalgia associated with vinyl records.

Vinyl Identification 101: All You Need to Know

To identify this particular pressing:

It does not have the "Subject to Sales " tax after Made in Gt Britain at the bottom of the label
The EMI-logo printed only once near the bottom of the label
Catalognr: EMI Columbia SCX 6157

Music Genre:

Psych, Acid, Prog, Rock

Album Production:

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: EMI Columbia SCX 6157

Vinyl Record Format: 12" Vinyl LP Record 153grams

Year and Country:

1967 Made in Gt Britain

Band Members and Musicians on: PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK)

Band/Musicians

Syd Barrett - guitar, vocals

Syd Barrett was an English singer, songwriter and musician, who is best known as the original lead vocalist, guitarist, and principal songwriter of the rock band Pink Floyd. He was born Roger Keith Barrett on January 6, 1946, in Cambridge, England. He played an important role in the early development of Pink Floyd and was the main creative force behind the band's first album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" (1967) .

more...

Syd Barrett's last album with Pink Floyd was their debut album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" which was released in August 1967. The album was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London, and features Barrett as the main songwriter and vocalist, with Roger Waters, Richard Wright, Nick Mason and himself as band members. The album received generally positive reviews and helped establish Pink Floyd as an important band in the emerging psychedelic rock scene of the late 1960s. text

After the album's release, Syd Barrett's behavior and commitment to the band became increasingly erratic due to his heavy use of psychedelic drugs, particularly LSD. As a result, he was eventually replaced by David Gilmour as the band's lead vocalist and guitarist in 1968, and did not participate in the recording of any further Pink Floyd albums.
Roger Waters - bass, vocals

George Roger Waters, known by his stage name Roger Waters, was born on 6 September 1943 in Great Bookham, Surrey, England. He grew up in a musical family, with his father Eric Fletcher Waters being a schoolteacher and a talented pianist. Waters developed a passion for music at an early age, learning to play the piano and the clarinet.

more...

In his teenage years, Waters discovered rock and roll music, which ignited his desire to pursue a career in the industry. He formed his first band, The Abdabs, in 1962 while attending Regent Street Polytechnic (now the University of Westminster) in London. The Abdabs later evolved into Sigma 6 and eventually became Pink Floyd in 1965, with Waters on bass guitar and vocals.

As a founding member of Pink Floyd, Waters played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound and artistic direction. He quickly established himself as the primary lyricist and conceptual leader of the group. Waters' introspective and thought-provoking lyrics became a signature element of Pink Floyd's music, exploring themes of alienation, politics, and human nature.

Throughout his tenure with Pink Floyd, Waters penned many of the band's most iconic songs, including "The Wall", "Wish You Were Here", "Another Brick in the Wall", and "Money". His creative vision and innovative ideas led to the production of several groundbreaking albums, such as "The Dark Side of the Moon" (1973), "Wish You Were Here" (1975), and "The Wall" (1979), which are considered timeless classics in the realm of rock music.

Waters' contributions extended beyond his songwriting abilities. He also provided lead vocals on numerous Pink Floyd tracks and was recognized for his exceptional bass guitar skills. His stage presence and charismatic performances captivated audiences around the world during the band's live shows.

However, tensions within Pink Floyd began to escalate in the late 1970s, leading to conflicts over creative control and personal differences between the band members. These tensions culminated in Waters' departure from Pink Floyd in 1985, after which the band continued without him.

Following his departure from Pink Floyd, Waters embarked on a successful solo career. He released his debut solo album, "The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking", in 1984, which was followed by several critically acclaimed albums, including "Radio K.A.O.S" (1987), "Amused to Death" (1992), and "Is This the Life We Really Want?" (2017). Waters' solo work often continued his exploration of sociopolitical issues and personal introspection.

Apart from his musical pursuits, Waters has been actively involved in various political and social causes. He is known for his advocacy of human rights and has used his platform to raise awareness about global conflicts and injustices. His concerts often incorporate political and social messages, promoting peace and social equality.

Roger Waters' contributions to music and his influence on rock as a genre are immeasurable. His introspective songwriting, powerful vocals, and willingness to tackle complex subjects have earned him a dedicated fan base worldwide. Despite the challenges he faced throughout his career, Waters continues to be a prolific artist and an influential figure in the music industry.

Rick Wright - organ, piano

Rick "Richard" Wright, born on 28 July 1943, was an English musician and songwriter best known as a founding member and keyboardist of the progressive rock band Pink Floyd. He made significant contributions to the band's sound with his skillful playing of the piano, organ, mellotron, vibraphone, and his occasional vocal performances. Wright's musical talent and innovative approach to keyboards played a crucial role in shaping Pink Floyd's unique sound.

more...

Richard William Wright was born in Hatch End, Middlesex, England. His passion for music developed at a young age, and he began playing the piano at the age of seven. Wright's formal music education began at the Regent Street Polytechnic in London, where he studied architecture. It was during this time that he met future Pink Floyd members Roger Waters and Nick Mason. The trio formed several bands together, ultimately leading to the creation of Pink Floyd in 1965, with the addition of Syd Barrett.

Wright's keyboard skills and melodic sensibilities became an integral part of Pink Floyd's sound. He was known for his ability to create atmospheric textures and intricate arrangements that complemented the band's progressive and psychedelic rock style. Wright's use of the Hammond organ, Mellotron, and later, synthesizers, helped define the band's sonic identity.

During Pink Floyd's early years, Wright shared songwriting duties with Waters and Barrett, contributing tracks such as "Remember a Day" and "See-Saw". However, as Waters took on a more dominant role in the band's songwriting, Wright's contributions diminished, leading to some tensions within the group. Despite this, Wright remained an essential creative force, particularly in the studio, where his keyboard work added depth and richness to the band's recordings.

Wright's contributions to Pink Floyd extended beyond his instrumental prowess. He provided backing and occasional lead vocals on several songs, including "Time", "Echoes", and "The Great Gig in the Sky". His soft and haunting voice added a unique touch to the band's repertoire, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

However, as Pink Floyd's success grew, so did the internal conflicts. Following the release of the album "The Wall" in 1979, tensions within the band reached a breaking point, and Wright left Pink Floyd during the recording of their subsequent album, "The Final Cut". Following his departure, he embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as "Wet Dream" (1978) and "Broken China" (1996).

Wright's solo work showcased his talents as a composer and his penchant for atmospheric and introspective music. He continued to explore different musical styles, incorporating elements of jazz and classical music into his compositions. Despite pursuing solo projects, Wright remained closely connected to his Pink Floyd bandmates and made guest appearances on their albums and during their live performances.

In 1987, Wright officially reunited with Pink Floyd, and the band released the album "A Momentary Lapse of Reason". Wright's return injected new energy into the group and helped recapture some of their earlier magic. He played a significant role in subsequent albums, including "The Division Bell" (1994) and "The Endless River" (2014).

Rick Wright's contributions to Pink Floyd's legacy cannot be overstated. His keyboard wizardry and musical intuition were vital in creating the band's sonic landscapes and iconic albums. While often overshadowed by the larger-than-life personas of other band members, Wright's quiet and understated presence made an indelible mark on the history of rock music.

Tragically, Rick Wright passed away on September 15, 2008, after a battle with cancer. His untimely death left a void in the world of music, but his remarkable
legacy lives on through his timeless contributions to Pink Floyd's discography and the lasting impact he made on the world of progressive rock.
Nicky Mason - drums

Nick Mason, born Nicholas Berkeley Mason on 27 January 271944, in Birmingham, England, is an English drummer and a founding member of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd. Throughout his career, Mason has established himself as a remarkable musician, renowned for his innovative drumming style and contributions to the band's sound.

more...

From a young age, Mason displayed a passion for music and a natural talent for drumming. He honed his skills by actively playing drums in various bands during his early years. However, it was in 1965 that his destiny took a momentous turn when he co-founded Pink Floyd alongside Syd Barrett, Roger Waters, and Richard Wright. This collaborative effort would forever shape the landscape of rock music.

As a core member of Pink Floyd, Mason has been the only constant presence throughout the band's illustrious history. His skillful drumming and rhythmic sensibility became an integral part of Pink Floyd's distinctive sound. Mason's ability to create intricate patterns, blend diverse influences, and experiment with unconventional time signatures elevated the band's compositions to new heights.

Pink Floyd's discography stands as a testament to Mason's enduring talent and musicianship. He has played on all of the band's studio albums, contributing his signature drumming style to their groundbreaking works. Albums such as "The Dark Side of the Moon", "Wish You Were Here", "Animals", and "The Wall" showcase Mason's mastery of his craft, as he skillfully weaves complex rhythms and textures into the band's sonic tapestry.

In addition to his studio work, Mason's live performances and concerts have captivated audiences worldwide. His energetic and precise drumming provided the backbone for Pink Floyd's immersive and visually stunning live shows. Mason's contributions to the band's stage productions were instrumental in creating unforgettable concert experiences that transcended traditional boundaries.

Beyond his work with Pink Floyd, Mason has pursued various side projects and collaborations, displaying his versatility as a musician. He has released solo albums, composed soundtracks for films, and worked with other artists across different genres. These endeavors highlight his ability to continually evolve and explore new musical territories while maintaining his distinctive drumming style.

Nick Mason's impact on the music industry extends far beyond his achievements with Pink Floyd. His dedication to his craft, innovative drumming techniques, and unwavering commitment to musical excellence have solidified his status as one of the greatest drummers in rock music. His contributions to Pink Floyd's legacy and the broader landscape of music have left an indelible mark that continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.