US compilation containing tracks omitted from the American versions of "Aftermath" and "Between The Buttons", plus three previously unreleased cuts - "Sitting On A Fence", "My Girl" and "Ride On Baby". It did well and peaked at #3 on the US album list. This UK issue came with same cover design and tracking, but aimed for export only and never sold domestically. As far as I can hear all tracks, except "Have You Seen Your Mother", are true stereo. To me sixties Stones does best in mono, but most on here sounds surprisingly good - big, clear and very enjoyable. I had a US London stereo earlier, but this comes through better, more natural. There was also a UK export of the mono (LK 4888). I've never heard it, but according to a post by Prof. Stoned on Steve Hoffmans Music Forums four of the tracks on that are fold downs from the stereo versions. You can check the full post here - http://forums.stevehoffman.tv/threads/rolling-stones-flowers-uk-mono-export.214975/ . First UK press with ridged un-boxed label and laminated cover. Early seventies re-issue with boxed label and same cover. (RÅ*)(PÖP*)(ÖXÄP*)
In all likeliness, this was sourced from a US assembled mastertape (both the stereo and mono). Since there are different US cuttings of varying quality in existence, this is probably up there with the best US pressings. I do have one of these myself (boxed but with 1W/1W, just like the original) and I have to say it does sound pretty darn good.
SvaraRaderaThe mono is good too but its audio quality is a bit more inconsistent. A good alternative for obtaining an expensive UK mono copy is the Spanish mono with the orange Decca label from the early 70's (cut from UK metal and good quality vinyl). You should be able to find one for less than $40, though they've become relatively scarce.
I guess You're right. My US copy was a $1, part of the cut-out dumping here in the seventies, so probably a rather late press. There's no reason a US first shouldn't sound as good or even better.
SvaraRaderaNever seen a Spanish here, but was offered an Italian red label mono a few years ago. I couldn't meet the prize and didn't listen, so don't know if it's good.