CREAM/FRESH CREAM 33-206 (-67) US MONO

 

 So far I've noticed three different variations of Fresh Cream issued around the world 1966-67.  The original ten-track released in UK. Then in a couple of countries that was enhanced to a twelve-track, adding "Wrapping Paper and Coffee Song". This  was the third, where they omitted "Spoonful" and replaced it with "I Feel Free", a form that originally seems to have been US only.  They all came in both mono and stereo and biggest difference in sleeve design was the shape of the "Fresh Cream" logo on front.  To me the most rewarding is the twelve-track. Not just because it was the one I grew up with, but also because of two more great songs.  The UK on Reaction may be the first choice for many as it was the first and this US has the advantage of being the only original LP carrying "I Feel Free".  So they all have advantages making it near impossible to choose if you only can pick one.  Guess the outcome would depend on where you were then.  Comparing the audio from this US mono with a UK original I hear some difference. They sound about the same, but to my ears the UK comes through a bit clearer while the US has more rounded edges with at least a couple of songs seemingly cut louder.  The matrixes on this copy has etched C-12489-A/C-12490-A and both sides with "AT" and "W".  The "AT" probably stands for an Atlantic pressing though not sure what the "W" means. Probably an early press with ridged label as shown here on heavy vinyl in a glossy cover.   (YZÄ*)  (CÄRÄ*)  (CPYC*) (ÖXCÅ*)