Pink Floyd - Ummagumma 12" Vinyl 2LP Album

French release with Gigi (Uncensored)

Pink Floyd's French release of "Ummagumma" on 12" Vinyl 2LP features the uncensored Gigi cover, a bold artistic choice. With various cover versions, the album captures the band's avant-garde spirit. Live recordings from 1969 showcase their experimental energy, while studio tracks highlight technical prowess. Designed by HIPGNOSIS, the album, with catalog number Harvest SHDW 2, made in France, stands as a collector's gem, embodying Pink Floyd's fearless exploration.This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

 

High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Umma Gumma France

"Ummagumma" Album Description:

The French release of "Ummagumma" by the iconic English Prog Rock band Pink Floyd stands as a distinctive chapter in the band's discography. Released as a 12" Vinyl 2LP Album, this version features the uncensored photo of "Gigi" on the album's front cover, creating a visually striking and controversial element.

The gatefold (FOC) cover design showcases the Gigi painting, adding an artistic dimension to the album's presentation. It's noteworthy that there are several versions of the Gigi cover on the front cover, each offering a unique visual experience for collectors and fans alike.

The original release with the Gigi painting on the cover captures the essence of the band's avant-garde approach and willingness to challenge conventional norms. The inclusion of an uncensored image reflects Pink Floyd's commitment to artistic expression and freedom.

In contrast, there are censored versions available. One features a white painting with no Gigi, toning down the provocative aspect of the original artwork. Another version takes a different approach by omitting the Gigi painting and it's frame entirely, leaving listeners with a more minimalistic design.

The album itself is divided into two distinct parts. Side One and Two showcase live recordings at the Mothers in Birmingham and Manchester College of Commerce in June 1969. This period marked a significant juncture in Pink Floyd's history, capturing the energy and experimentation of their live performances during that time.

On the other hand, Side Three and Four present studio recordings, displaying the band's prowess in crafting intricate studio compositions. The engineering work by Brian Humpries and Peter Mew, coupled with production by Norman Smith, contributes to the sonic richness of the studio tracks.

Sleeve Design and Photography for "Ummagumma" are credited to HIPGNOSIS, a design group known for their collaboration with numerous progressive rock bands. The visuals complement the music, creating a holistic and immersive experience for the listener.

The catalog number for this French release is Harvest SHDW 2, emphasizing its place within the Harvest Records catalog. The fact that it was made in France adds a geographical dimension to the album's history, reflecting its international influence and appeal.

Music Genre:

Psych Acid Music 
Album Production:

Side One & Two recorded Live at the MOTHERS, Birmingham & Manchest College of Commerce June 1969,.

Side three and four recorded in the Studio. Engineers: Brian Humpries & Peter Mew.

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.

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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.

Sleeve Design and Photography: HIPGNOSIS

Hipgnosis was an English art group founded in 1968 by Storm Thorgerson, Aubrey Powell, and Peter Christopherson. The group was known for their innovative and creative album covers, which became iconic in the music industry. Hipgnosis worked with some of the most influential musicians of their time, including Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Yes.

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The group's name, "Hipgnosis," was a play on the words "hypnosis" and "hip." They believed that their art had the power to hypnotize people and transport them to another world, which was reflected in their album covers. The group's style was surreal and often incorporated elements of fantasy, science fiction, and the occult. Their designs were highly detailed and often required extensive planning and preparation.

One of the group's most famous album covers was for Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon." The cover featured a prism refracting light into a rainbow, which became one of the most recognizable images in rock history. The design was so successful that it became synonymous with the band and their music. Another iconic design was for Led Zeppelin's "Houses of the Holy," which featured a group of naked children climbing on a rock formation. The image was highly controversial but helped to solidify the band's rebellious image.

Hipgnosis also worked with a number of other influential musicians, including Peter Gabriel, Black Sabbath, and Genesis. They designed the cover for Peter Gabriel's first solo album, which featured a photograph of Gabriel wearing a mask with only his eyes visible. The image became another iconic design and was later referenced in Gabriel's music video for "Sledgehammer."

The group's success continued into the 1980s, with designs for bands such as Scorpions and Styx. However, the rise of digital technology and the decline of album sales led to the group's decline. Hipgnosis disbanded in 1983, but their legacy lives on in the countless album covers they created.

Hipgnosis was not just an art group, but a collective of artists who had a significant impact on the music industry. Their innovative designs helped to define the visual style of rock music in the 1970s and 1980s. Their work was not just a complement to the music, but an essential part of the overall experience. They created a world that fans could enter into and lose themselves in, just like the music they were listening to.

Here is a web-page with a gallery of album covers created by Hipgnosis

 

Record Label Information:

Harvest SHDW 2
Record Media Format:  12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 
Country of Origin  Made in France
Band Members and Musicians on: Pink Floyd - Ummagumma uncensored Gigi France
    Pink Floyd's Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • 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.

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    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.

  • Nick Mason - percusssion

    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.

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    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.

  • Dave Gilmour - Guitar, vocals

    David Gilmour (Full-name: David Jon Gilmour) is an English musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the guitarist, co-lead vocalist and one of the main songwriters of the rock band Pink Floyd. He was born on 6 March 1946, in Cambridge, England.

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    Gilmour began playing guitar at a young age and formed his first band, Jokers Wild, in 1962. He later joined the band Bullitt, which also included future Pink Floyd member, Roger Waters. In 1968, he was invited to join Pink Floyd as a replacement for the band's original lead vocalist and guitarist, Syd Barrett, who had become increasingly unreliable due to his use of psychedelic drugs.

    Gilmour quickly established himself as an integral member of Pink Floyd, contributing to the band's songwriting and providing lead vocals on many of their songs. He played an important role in the band's success, particularly with the release of their critically acclaimed and commercially successful album "The Dark Side of the Moon" (1973), "Wish You Were Here" (1975) and "The Wall" (1979)

    In addition to his work with Pink Floyd, Gilmour has also released several solo albums, including "David Gilmour" (1978), "About Face" (1984), "On an Island" (2006), "Rattle That Lock" (2015) and "No One Home" (2020)

    Throughout his career, Gilmour has been recognized as one of the greatest guitar players of all time and has been awarded with numerous accolades, including several Ivor Novello Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Pink Floyd in 1996. He continues to perform and record music, and remains an influential figure in the music industry

    He is the first child of Douglas Gilmour and Sylvia Wilson.

    On 7 July 1975, he married Virginia "Ginger", Hasenbein. He married Polly Samson in 1994. He was 29 years old when he married Virginia "Ginger", Hasenbein. He was 48 years old when he married Polly Samson. He got divorced from Virginia "Ginger", Hasenbein around 1994.

  • Rick Wright - keyboards, vocals

    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.

Track Listing of: Pink Floyd - Ummagumma uncensored Gigi France
 
    Side One:
  1. Astronomy Domine
  2. Careful with that Axe Eugene
    Side Two:
  1. Set the control for the heart of the sun
  2. A Saucerful of Secrets
    Side Three:
  1. Richard Wright - Sysyphus
  2. Roger Waters - Grantchester Meadows, Several Pieces of Small Furry Animals gathered together in a Cave and grooving with a pict
    Side Four:
  1. David Gilmour - The Narrow Way
  2. Nick Mason - The Grand Vizier's Garden Party, Entrance, Entertainment, Exit
 
Album cover photos of : Pink Floyd - Ummagumma uncensored Gigi France
Photo of Front Cover 
High Resolution Photo #1 PINK FLOYD Umma Gumma France  
Photo of Album's Back Cover  
High Resolution Photo #2 PINK FLOYD Umma Gumma France  
Photo Collage of Pink Floyd on the inner page of the cover  
High Resolution Photo #3 PINK FLOYD Umma Gumma France  
Photo Collage of Pink Floyd on the inner page of the cover  
High Resolution Photo #4 PINK FLOYD Umma Gumma France  
Photo of Record Label 
High Resolution Photo #5 PINK FLOYD Umma Gumma France  

 Note: the pictures on this page are actual photos of the 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 UmmaGumma Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

"Ummagumma" is the fourth studio album by the English rock band Pink Floyd, released in 1969. The album is considered a classic of the progressive rock genre and is known for its experimental and unconventional nature.

"Ummagumma" is a double album, with the first disc featuring live recordings of four Pink Floyd songs, recorded at various concerts during their 1969 tour. The second disc features individual solo pieces by each member of the band, showcasing their different musical interests and styles. These pieces range from acoustic guitar and keyboard compositions to abstract sound collages and experimental sound effects.

The album's unique format and eclectic mix of styles has made "Ummagumma" a seminal work in the history of progressive rock, and it continues to be highly regarded by fans and music critics alike. The album's cover art, designed by the graphic design group Hipgnosis, is also well-known and highly regarded, featuring a surreal painting titled "Gigi".

The original cover artwork for Pink Floyd's "Ummagumma" album, including the painting "Gigi", has been removed from some re-issues of the album due to licensing issues. When record labels re-issue albums, they often need to secure the rights to use the original artwork again, and if they are unable to do so, they may choose to use alternative artwork or remove the original artwork altogether. This is what happened with some re-issues of "Ummagumma", where the "Gigi" painting was removed from the cover due to the difficulty of securing the rights to use it. However, some re-issues of the album do still include the original cover art.

The sound of the fly on Pink Floyd's "Ummagumma" album was created using a variety of recording techniques. One of the methods involved recording the sound of a real fly in a studio setting and then manipulating the recording to create the desired sound effect. This could have involved adjusting the speed, pitch, or volume of the recording, or using sound-editing software to layer multiple recordings together. Another method could have involved synthesizing the fly sound using electronic instruments or sound generators. The exact method used to create the fly sound on "Ummagumma" is not specified, but it is likely that a combination of different techniques was used to achieve the desired effect.

PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (France) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (France) album front cover

Harvest SHDW 2 , 1969 , France

Pink Floyd's French release of "Ummagumma" on 12" Vinyl 2LP features the uncensored Gigi cover, a bold artistic choice. With various cover versions, the album captures the band's avant-garde spirit. Live recordings from 1969 showcase their experimental energy, while studio tracks highlight technical prowess. Designed by HIPGNOSIS, the album, with catalog number Harvest SHDW 2, made in France, stands as a collector's gem, embodying Pink Floyd's fearless exploration.

Learn more
PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (Germany) album front cover

Harvest 1C 188-04 222 , 1969 , Germany

The 1969 German release of Pink Floyd's "Ummagumma" showcases the band's experimental prowess during the late 1960s. This double LP includes live performances and studio recordings, featuring an uncensored cover with Gigi, adding controversy to the avant-garde aesthetics. The album's unique blend of psych, acid, and prog rock, coupled with its distinct cover, encapsulates a transformative period in music history, making it a valuable collector's item for enthusiasts.

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PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (UK/Gt Britain) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (UK/Gt Britain) album front cover

EMI Harvest SHDW 1 , 1969 , Gt Britain

Pink Floyd's 1969 album "Ummagumma," featuring the Gigi cover, symbolizes the band's pivotal role in the late '60s progressive rock movement. The cover's artistic boldness, later censored, reflects the era's experimentation. The gatefold design and variations in Gigi's depiction add intrigue. Musically, the album's live and studio segments showcase Pink Floyd's avant-garde approach, securing its legacy in progressive rock history.

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PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (Italy) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (Italy) album front cover

EMI Harvest 3C 154-04222 , 1969 , Italy

The Italian release of Pink Floyd's "Ummagumma" in 1969, featuring the uncensored Gigi painting on the cover, marked a pivotal moment in music history. Blending live recordings from iconic venues with innovative studio work, the album showcases the band's transition from psychedelia to progressive rock. Weighing in at 490 grams, this vinyl masterpiece stands as a testament to Pink Floyd's experimental brilliance and enduring influence on the evolving rock landscape.

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PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (USA) 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of PINK FLOYD - Ummagumma (USA) album front cover

Capitol SKBB-388  , , Recorded in England, Printed in USA

Pink Floyd's American release of "Ummagumma" on 12" 2LP vinyl, featuring a censored album cover erasing Gigi, holds historical significance. Designed by Hipgnosis, the live recordings from 1969 in Birmingham and Manchester College of Commerce showcase the band's prowess. Studio tracks highlight their versatility. The international production (Recorded in England, Printed in USA) and Capitol SKBB-388 catalog number add to its time-period charm.

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