Aphrodite's Child - Rain and Tears 12" Vinyl LP ALbum

Aphrodite's Child's 1968 debut album, "Rain and Tears," produced by Vangelis Papathanassiou, marked a pivotal moment in the late '60s music scene. Recorded at London's Morgan Studios and released under Philips Records, it showcased a fusion of psychedelic rock and progressive pop. Reflecting the era's cultural upheaval, the LP's innovative sound, underpinned by Vangelis' early electronic experimentation, continues to resonate, making it a timeless emblem of musical evolution.This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.

 

Album Front Cover of Aphrodite's Child - Rain and Tears

"Rain and Tears" Album Description:

In the tumultuous era of the late 1960s, marked by social upheaval and a vibrant cultural revolution, the debut album "Rain and Tears" by Aphrodite's Child emerged as a musical testament that echoed the spirit of its time. Released in 1968, this 12" vinyl LP album not only encapsulated the essence of the late '60s but also made a significant contribution to the evolving landscape of music production.

Aphrodite's Child, a Greek progressive rock band formed by Demis Roussos, Vangelis Papathanassiou, and Loukas Sideras, embarked on a sonic journey that blended diverse musical influences, ranging from psychedelic rock to progressive pop. Vangelis Papathanassiou, later renowned for his solo career in electronic music, took on the role of producer for the album, showcasing his early prowess in shaping soundscapes.

The recording process unfolded at Morgan Studios in London, a hub for creativity that bore witness to the creation of many iconic albums during that era. The choice of location added a touch of cosmopolitan flair to Aphrodite's Child's sonic palette, contributing to the album's unique character.

"Rain and Tears" served as a creative outlet for the band, allowing them to experiment with unconventional sounds and push the boundaries of traditional musical structures. The LP format provided an extended canvas for artistic expression, enabling the inclusion of intricate arrangements and extended instrumental passages that were emblematic of the progressive rock genre.

The album's release under the esteemed Philips Records label further solidified its place in the musical landscape of the late 1960s. Philips Records, a prominent player in the industry, facilitated the distribution of "Rain and Tears," ensuring that the band's sonic exploration reached a wide audience.

In the context of the late 1960s, characterized by the rise of counterculture, political activism, and a redefinition of societal norms, "Rain and Tears" reflected the zeitgeist. The album's lyrical themes and musical experimentation resonated with the youth of the time, providing a soundtrack to their experiences and aspirations.

Moreover, the production techniques employed by Vangelis Papathanassiou showcased an early glimpse of his visionary approach to music. His innovative use of synthesizers and electronic elements foreshadowed the groundbreaking contributions he would later make to the world of electronic and ambient music.

Album Summary: A compilation album of the Best of Aphrodite's Child between 1968-1969

Music Genre:

  Psych, Acid, Rock
Record Label:  Fontana 6420 006 (6420006)

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 
 Country  Made in Germany
Track Listing of: Aphrodite's Child - Rain and Tears
    Side One:
  1. Rain and Tears
  2. Let Me Love, Let Me Live
  3. I Want To Live
  4. Magic Mirror
  5. The Shepherd and the Moon
  6. It's Five O'Clock
    Side Two:
  1. Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall
  2. Good Time, So Fine
  3. The Grass is No Green
  4. Funky Mary
  5. End of the World
Index of Aphrodite's Child Album Cover Gallery & 12" LP Vinyl Discography Information
APHRODITE'S CHILD - 666 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of APHRODITE'S CHILD - 666 album front cover

Vertigo 6333 500 , 1972 , France

Aphrodite's Child's 1972 double LP "666" is a classic of progressive rock. The album explores the biblical theme of the apocalypse and salvation, fusing together elements of progressive and psychedelic rock with avant-garde experimentation. It has gained a cult following and is regarded as an essential album in the genre.

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APHRODITE'S CHILD - Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of APHRODITE'S CHILD  - Self-Titled album front cover

Music For Millions , Philips – 6484 309 , 1982 , Netherlands

One of the most notable aspects of Aphrodite's Child's music is the use of electronic instrumentation, which was relatively uncommon in rock music at the time. Vangelis's keyboard work is particularly impressive, incorporating innovative sound effects and textures that help to create the album's unique atmosphere.

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APHRODITE'S CHILD - It's Five O'Clock b/w Funky Mary 7" Vinyl Single
Thumbnail of APHRODITE'S CHILD - It's Five O'Clock b/w Funky Mary 7" Vinyl Single album front cover

Mercury / Serie Parade , ,

Aphrodite's Child's 1970 7" vinyl single, "It's Five O'Clock" b/w "Funky Mary," stands as a pivotal contribution to the eclectic musical landscape of the early 1970s. With progressive rock brilliance on the A-side and a foray into funk on the B-side, the record reflects the band's experimental spirit. The analog production techniques and captivating picture sleeve further enhance its significance in capturing the essence of a transformative musical era.

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APHRODITE'S CHILD - I Want To Live b/w Magic Mirror 7" Vinyl Single
Thumbnail of APHRODITE'S CHILD - I Want To Live b/w Magic Mirror 7" Vinyl Single album front cover

Mercury 152 505 , , France

Aphrodite's Child's 1969 French release of "I Want To Live" and "Magic Mirror" on a 7" Vinyl Single encapsulates the experimental spirit of late 1960s music. With a fusion of psychedelic rock and progressive elements, the tracks, housed in a visually striking sleeve, reflect the era's cultural shifts. Produced during the vinyl-dominated analog era on the Mercury label, the single stands as a tangible artifact, contributing to the band's international appeal and the broader evolution of the music industry.

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APHRODITE'S CHILD - Rain and Tears 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of APHRODITE'S CHILD - Rain and Tears album front cover

Fontana 6420 006 , , Germany

Aphrodite's Child's 1968 debut album, "Rain and Tears," produced by Vangelis Papathanassiou, marked a pivotal moment in the late '60s music scene. Recorded at London's Morgan Studios and released under Philips Records, it showcased a fusion of psychedelic rock and progressive pop. Reflecting the era's cultural upheaval, the LP's innovative sound, underpinned by Vangelis' early electronic experimentation, continues to resonate, making it a timeless emblem of musical evolution.

Learn more