NICK DRAKE - FIVE LEAVES LEFT. Very Rare 1969 1st UK Vinyl. ILPS 9105. EX/EX+
£
1,208
$
1,442
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Description
For auction is a superb condition very rare 1st U.K. vinyl issue of Nick Drake’s debut album ‘Five Leaves Left’ from 1969 on the Island label. ILPS 9105. A2/B2 matrices.
These first issue copies are very rare, as fewer than 3000 were sold. It is rare to find genuine complete copies, and even rarer to find them in such super condition.
Original first issue unlaminated gatefold sleeve, made by Ernest J Day, is in really excellent condition. Later copies and reissue sleeves were made by Robor Limited.Most of these unlaminated copies have major issues with ring and edge wear and other discolouration. This copy is superbly clean and unmarked with bright colours on the front and clean surfaces on the rear. Spine in super condition - fully intact and fully readable.
Original Polydor inner sleeve in excellent condition. Only later reissues, and other Drake albums from 1970 onwards, came with the light blue Island inners.
Original First Issue pink labels in excellent condition with only very minor spindle marks, but no writing, tears or other issues.
Record visually - side 1 is EX+, as in normal light is unmarked and even under very bright lamp one can only see a couple of light wispy sleeve removal marks. Side 2 visually almost as great apart from a very minor scuff mark visible under bright lamp. A conservative EX grading.
Sonically - side 1 is EX+, with only very occasional very light crackle. Plays with beautifully clear and vibrant sound belying its 50 years. Side 2 is just as good, with very occasional light crackles.No sticks, clicks, ticks or jumps on either side. All this without having had a deep professional clean.
There is a very slight wobble to the record when playing - see final photo - but in no way does it affect play.
All in all this is a superb example of a very rare and iconic album. A credit to anyone’s collection.
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