PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn 12" Vinyl LP Album

- UK 3rd release

Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," UK 3rd release, distinguishes itself with the absence of "Subject to Sales Tax" on the label. Released in 1967 during a transformative musical era, the album, led by Syd Barrett, contributed to psychedelic and progressive rock. This sought-after vinyl reflects not only Barrett's experimental brilliance but also captures the socio-economic nuances of its time, making it a prized collector's item in the realm of music history.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK3

"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)

Complete Track Listing of: PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK)
    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
Photos of the LP's cover: PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK)

 

Photo of PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK) Album's Front Cover 

High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK3

High Resolution Photo #2 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK3  

Photo of PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK) Record Label 
High Resolution Photo #3 PINK FLOYD Piper Gates UK3  

 

Index of PINK FLOYD The Piper At The Gates of Dawn Vinyl Album Index Discography and Album Cover Gallery
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Brazil) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Brazil)
 album front cover
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Brazil)
 record label

  EMI-Harvest 31C 064 04292 , , Brazil

Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," a 12" Vinyl LP Album with a Brazilian release (EMI-Harvest 31C 064 04292), encapsulates the experimental spirit of the late '60s. Produced by Norman Smith, engineered by Peter Bown, and adorned with a unique cover design by Syd Barrett, it marked the band's debut, capturing the essence of the psychedelic rock movement and the counterculture era with its innovative sound and artistic expression.

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PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (France) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (France) album front cover
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (France) record label

Columbia EMI 2C 064-04.292 , 1978 , France

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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PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Germany) album front cover
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Germany)  record label

 EMI Columbia 1C 062-04 292 , 1967 , Germany

Pink Floyd's debut album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" (1967), released on EMI Columbia in Germany, epitomizes the 1960s psychedelic and progressive rock movement. With visionary Syd Barrett at the helm, the album's experimental soundscapes and surreal lyrics define an era of musical innovation. The German release further solidifies its global impact, contributing to the cultural tapestry of a transformative period in music history.

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PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK FAME) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK FAME) album front cover
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (UK FAME) Record Label

FAME FA 3065 , FAME FA 3065 , UK

Pink Floyd's debut album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," led by Syd Barrett, emerged in 1967, encapsulating the spirit of the psychedelic rock era. With whimsical lyrics exploring space, scarecrows, and fairytales, the album became a cornerstone of musical innovation. Its enduring influence on the counterculture is evident in the eclectic themes and psychedelic instrumentals, making it a timeless gem in the legacy of Pink Floyd.

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PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (2nd Pressing) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (2nd Pressing)
 album front cover
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (2nd Pressing)
 album front cover

 Columbia SCX 6157 , 1967 , Gt Britain

Pink Floyd's "The Piper At The Gates of Dawn" 2nd pressing, a 1967 vinyl gem, encapsulates the band's inception in the dynamic musical landscape. Marked by a white-on-black EMI logo, fold-over back cover, and distinctive Columbia label, it's a time capsule reflecting the countercultural spirit. Cataloged as Columbia SCX 6157, its nuanced details offer a tangible link to Pink Floyd's early artistic exploration amidst the transformative late '60s music scene.

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PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (3rd Pressing) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (3rd Pressing) album front cover
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (3rd Pressing) record label

EMI Columbia SCX 6157 , 1967 , Gt Britain

Pink Floyd's "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn," UK 3rd release, distinguishes itself with the absence of "Subject to Sales" tax on the label. Released in 1967 during a transformative musical era, the album, led by Syd Barrett, contributed to psychedelic and progressive rock. This sought-after vinyl reflects not only Barrett's experimental brilliance but also captures the socio-economic nuances of its time, making it a prized collector's item in the realm of music history.

Learn more
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (4th Release) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (4th Release)
 album front cover
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (4th Release)
 record label close-up

EMI Columbia SCX 6157 , 1967 , Gt Britain

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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PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (Gt Britain 5th Issue) 12" Vinyl LP
PINK FLOYD - The Piper at the Gates of Dawn 5th Issue album front cover
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn 5th Issue Close-up Record Label

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.

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