An incredibly rare, early vinyl copy of Pink Floyd’s classic album Dark Side of the Moon can now be viewed at Clocktower Records in Bridport.
Owner Roy Gregory told The West Dorset Magazine: “We are pleased to be keepers of a mythical release.
“Very few people have seen it, and we are amazed it came through our doors. The next time you’re in Bridport make sure to come into our shop to request to view it in the vault.”
Mr Gregory explained that in 1972, Pink Floyd toured their then work-in-progress album Dark Side of the Moon for nine months.
On February 27, 1973, record label EMI arranged a press reception for the album to which 250 journalists and members of the media were invited.
Alongside the fancy cocktails and finger food, attendees received a copy of the LP, printed then without the iconic black prism sleeve, and instead
presented in a gatefold silver sleeve with a press release.
An invitation for the premiere was also included, giving the running order for the evening. Unfortunately, the programme for the event is the only part that has been lost from Clocktower Records’ vinyl set.
The record was a “1G pressing” meaning it is one the first 300 copies ever pressed, making this probably one of the rarest and most sought-after Pink
Floyd records anywhere.
The vinyl is so rare it is rumoured the band members themselves do not own copies, except possibly keyboardist Richard Wright who was said to be the only band member at the press event.