JEFF BECK GROUP/COSA NOSTRA BECK-OLA UK MONO SX 6351 VS. STEREO SCX 6351

Always took for granted this mono was a fold, as issued late 1969 and coming out more damp and with a lot less edge than the stereo. But since I still see dealers flaunting it as a separate mix and having friends totally convinced it is I thought I'd compare with a UK first press and settle the matter once and for all (at least for myself) - using the mono button on the stereo to mimic a fold. Comparing intros and outros all songs coincide exactly, as does balance. Clearly the same mix, but there is a difference - connecting the stereo channels actually gives a rawer and more fulfilling audio. The mono issue sounds a tiny bit more compressed and smoother, like a radio promo, which may have been the original purpose. Same thing as with Rolling Stones "Let It Bleed" mono (  https://monolover.blogspot.com/2015/12/rolling-stoneslet-it-bleed-skl-5025-lk.html  ), released at about the same time. So this mono is something else, but to my ears not in a good way. Very first UK had labels as shown here with "Sold In UK..." at bottom edge, matt flip/back cover and EMI ad inner. (JÄBÄ*) (YMÖ*) (CPYC*)(MÅW*)