THE KINKS GSGL 10357 (-66) UK STEREO

The Kinks 1964 eponymous debute album for Pye was mixed in both stereo and mono initially, but only the mono was sold in UK and the stereo distributed for export. However the first UK stereo release came just fifteen months later with this issue on Pye's buget label Golden Guinea. This sounds a lot like the original export  https://monolover.blogspot.com/2022/08/the-kinkskinks-nspl-83021-64-uk-export.html and even if the matrix numbers differ (this has stamped GSGL 10357-A1*T/-B1*T) I guess they're from the same tapes. It seems unlikely they would do a separate mix for a budget issue. All cuts, except "You Really Got Me", are true stereo. Even if the mono generally provides better listening and original feeling this has better separation and is more revealing for better or worse. For once I actually get more garage feel from a stereo. A few of the cuts comes through somewhat weak, but greater part loud and strong. Considering the few channels it's a pretty eclectic mix. I really like the vocals - shifting speakers or with lead in one and background quire in the other. You can probably get the same mix on later vinyl or CD although I doubt they have the same edge and power. So if you don't wanna spend hundreds of bucks on an original Pye stereo export this is a very good alternative and a bargain in comparison. First had label as shown here with "Recording first published 1964", thick unflexible vinyl and laminated flip/back mono cover with stereo sticker on back. (KYX*) (PÖY*)