DONOVAN GIFT FROM A FLOWER COMPLETE ORIGINAL RARE VINYL

	£		61
	$		81

Thank you for visiting my listing. The section immediately below sets out information specific to the particular album / record offered in this listing. This is followed by my general comments about vinyl which you may want to browse through if you have time. Please feel free to email me with your own corresponding comments or observations, particularly if you have relevant information to add, with good quality evidence, which contradicts any of my assertions - I have been known to make a mistake, and I will always stand proven correction. I play grade all vinyls on a Project III deck fitted with an Ortofon OM 5E cartridge down-force set at 17.5 mN (1.75 g) through a Rega Brio amplifier with sound delivered by Focal Chorus 706 loudspeakers. Before bidding please take a careful look through my terms and conditions to avoid any misunderstandings.

Album / Record Title: A GIFT FROM A FLOWER TO A GARDEN

Rarity: This particular example qualifies as VERY RARE for a number of good reasons. First, it is the original PYE English pressing. Secondly, it is recorded in the rarer Stereo format and it is a true First Pressing with corresponding Matrices, Stampers & KT tax code in the vinyl run off areas. Thirdly, its early Stereo first pressing credentials are confirmed by the fact that it is housed in a Stereo stickered Mono Box - manufacturers sticker is top left of lid - which were used for a short time when the Stereo format were first released. Finally it is quite possibly the best all round example in excellent condition that you will find available for sale anywhere at this time. In short an absolutely brilliant example of this Donovan Masterpiece complete with the 12 lyric sheet inners and folder in near mint condition.

Artiste(s): DONOVAN

Disc Format: 2 X 12” LP’s

Recording Format: STEREO

Record label: PYE ORIGINAL POWDER BLUE WITH BLACK PRINT

Catalogue Number: NSPL 2000/1 & NSPL 2000/2

Country of manufacture and first published date: ENGLAND 1968

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrices side 1:     NSPL2000 A-1*G (Record 1)

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrices side 2:     NSPL2000 B-1*G (Record 1)

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrices side 1:     NSPL2000 C-1*G (Record 2) also shows deleted NSPL18222 A-1G matrices

Vinyl ‘run off’ matrices side 2:     NSPL2000 D-1*G (Record 2) also shows deleted NSPL18222 B-1G matrices

Vinyl ‘run off’ stampers side 1:    J   KT   1

Vinyl ‘run off’ stampers side 2:    H   1

Vinyl ‘run off’ stampers side 1:    J   KT   1

Vinyl ‘run off’ stampers side 2:    G   1

Track Listing as per label: RECORD 1 SIDE 1: WEAR YOUR LOVE LIKE HEAVEN / MAD JOHN’S ESCAPE / SKIP-A-LONG SAM / SUN / THERE WAS A TIME / SIDE 2: OH GOSH / LITTLE BOY IN CORDUROY / UNDER THE GREENWOOD TREE / THE LAND OF DOESN’T HAVE TO BE / SOMEONE’S SINGING / RECORD 2 SIDE 1: SONG OF THE NATURALIST’S WIFE / THE ENCHANTED GYPSY / VOYAGE INTO THE GOLDEN SCREEN / ISLE OF ISLAY / THE MANDOLIN MAN AND HIS SECRET / LAY OF THE LAST TINKER / SIDE 2: THE TINKER AND THE CRAB / WIDOW WITH A SHAWL (A PORTRAIT) / THE LULLABY OF SPRING / THE MAGPIE / STARFISH-ON-THE-TOAST / EPISTLE TO DERROLL

Opinion: For me the high point of Donovans work and one of the best albums of its genre ever made. Terribly hard to find a brilliant example but this is the one. Usually the box is badly worn with stain marks a plenty, or the inserts are missing, but worst of all the vinyls only have to be lightly scratched and that manifests itself as a disproportionate problem because the music is so soft and gentle throughout. This one is in my opinion as good as it gets.

MY GRADING OF THIS ALBUM (based on Record Collector ‘Rare Record Price Guide 2008’)

Vinyl Visual Record 1 side 1: EXCELLENT very few superficial surface lines only, it has no serious or tangible scratches which interfere with play or have any significant audio affect. Lovely deep glossy black shine, as new.

Vinyl Visual Record 1 side 2: EXCELLENT, exactly the same comments apply as for side 1.

Vinyl Visual Record 2 side 1: EXCELLENT very few superficial surface lines only, it has no serious or tangible scratches which interfere with play or have any significant audio affect. Lovely deep glossy black shine, as new.

Vinyl Visual Record 2 side 2: EXCELLENT, exactly the same comments apply as for side 1.

Label Visual Record 1 side 1: EXCELLENT+ very few light spindle lines but otherwise no marks, no tears, no scuffs - almost as new

Label Visual Record 1 side 2: EXCELLENT+ very few light spindle lines but otherwise no marks, no tears, no scuffs.

Label Visual Record 2 side 1: EXCELLENT+ very few light spindle lines but otherwise no marks, no tears, no scuffs - almost as new

Label Visual Record 2 side 2: EXCELLENT+ very few light spindle lines but otherwise no marks, no tears, no scuffs.

Outer BOX Cover: EXCELLENT MINUS the original two part box cover lid with separate base Navy Blue with pasted on photographs front and back, photographic design by Karl Ferris. Record 1 / The First titles and lyrics inside lid along with 'cover notes' print signed by Donovan. Record 2 / The Second titles, credits and photograph inside the base - lyrics are as mentioned 12 separate illustrated inserts in a folder. I use the MINUS grade for two reasons, first there is some light edge and corner rubbing, there is an owners name written inside the lid of the cover, and there’s a small brown mark, which may come off, on the bottom border at the front - otherwise it’s the best example I’ve seen for years

Spine: There isn’t one as such but the box edges are very good an intact.

Inner Sleeves: VERY GOOD+ original white paper with the usual blue printed cautionary notes and antistatic poly-liners slight browning and small creasing with age and the previous owners name written in felt pen.

Lyric Inserts: Folder titled DONOVAN containing 12 lyric inserts all in as new condition.

Vinyl Warp: none visible when eye tested on a moving turntable.

Vinyl Weight: 155 & 160 grammes (two of the original heavyweights)

Play Grade: EXCELLENT

Audio Performance: I COULD HAVE GRADED THIS A LITTLE HIGHER WITH A PLUS BUT I HAVE TO BE CAUTIOUS WITH THIS ALBUM BECAUSE OF THE AUDIO SENSITIVITY DUE TO THE SOFTNESS OF THE VOICE AND MUSIC. IN ANY EVENT THIS IS SENSATIONAL AUDIO DELIVERY FROM TWO BRILLIANT VINYLS. THE STYLUS LANDS LIGHTLY WITH A SOFT 'PURR' ON THE LEAD IN AND ALTHOUGH THERE IS THE OCCASIONAL UNAVOIDABLE SOFT CRACKLE AND LIGHT SURFACE SOUND THERE IS NOTHING THAT SPOILT THE AUDIO PERFORMANCE FOR ME IN ANY WAY THROUGHOUT ALL FOUR SIDES OF THESE LOVELY VINYLS.

Other: In my opinion you are unlikely to find another one as good as this for sale in the normal course of events.

PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT MY OTHER LISTINGS BY CLICKING ON THE ‘VIEW SELLERS OTHER ITEMS’ IN THE TOP RIGHT HAND CORNER BOX OF THIS LISTING - THANK YOU.

My definition of a rare vinyl: Generally there is agreement that to qualify for the description rare there should not be too many of the type offered, available on the market at the time. With my listings that will be the main criterion however I will also occasionally claim rarity based on excellence of condition, or some other key feature, or an accompanying item such as an insert, which is not often found with similar vinyls.

UK first and early pressings: This has become something of a ‘fashion accessory’ for many of the albums listed on eBay and, as with fashion, there are many imitators. Of course with the more popular huge selling albums, where the record companies were fairly sure of major sales from the outset. there were many first pressings but otherwise this was not usually the case. Generally the lower the numbers in the matrices on the vinyl ‘run off’ areas on both sides of a record the earlier the pressing therefore ‘A1’ & ‘B1’ are most often first or early pressings, but there are variants and exceptions to the rule. The most notable ones, for example where the ‘1’ matrix was only used for test pressings so the commercial releases started at ‘2’, are well documented now but there are a few more observations which are worth noting. There are low numbered matrices which belong to second and even third pressings - in this case the record companies gave similar numbers to the first press of a re-issue - you can normally identify these by, examining the labels which are often different, and/or checking the weight of the record as the earlier pressings were normally heavier. This weight difference also applies to the different symbols used in the matrices for example some record companies first denoted early pressings with A61 & B61 for example and then changed to A // 1 & B // 1, in these cases the weight of the vinyl is often all important with identification. Occasionally there are high numbers on first pressings, but this is unusual. Other points to note are the manufacturer of the ‘cover’ or ‘outer sleeve’ and various characteristics or design variants. The ‘inner sleeve’ or ‘bag’ can also be an indicator. However it is not wise to rely on details beyond the matrices and labels as the covers and sleeves can easily be interchanged - the best advice is to try and make sure that everything matches the criteria thus eliminating most of the risk (a good look at the photographs on the listing, if they are of the actual item offered as they are on all of my listings, is always advisable). As a general rule I suggest that you don’t pay hundred’s or thousands of pounds unless you are buying from a reliable source who provide you with clear information and have a clearly stated ‘Returns Policy’ - or unless you’ve got money to throw away (and in that case there are any number of far more deserving charities)

Audio reproduction on vinyl: In my experience there is always an element of surface or background sound with audio reproduction on vinyl - very hard to imagine how there could not be when two solid surfaces come into contact with each other and are then amplified! Almost all used vinyl has at least light surface scratches which are always visible when viewed under a bright halogen light - which is what I use for inspection. So if you are uncomfortable with a bit of light crackling it’s probably best not to buy vinyl. In my opinion the light surface sound is more than compensated for by the clarity and ‘reality’ of the overall sound reproduction. I listen carefully to every album I list before listing it for sale.

Finally: All of this comment contained in this listing is subjective, it is based only on my opinion and your expectations may not necessarily correspond with my standards. If you receive an album from me and you have some differences please remember to use reasonable communication as a first option. I have a comprehensive non confrontational ‘Returns Policy’ which is clearly set out below and providing there is no abuse, or use the negative feedback system, I will always reimburse you in full for your direct costs if you return the album correctly.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE

DESCRIPTIONS: Are given in good faith, but they are based on my opinion and standards.  Bidders should note that they offer at their own risk and must satisfy themselves that they have sufficient information about the item before they enter the bidding process.  Please ask questions before you become involved with the auction, NOT afterwards! Where I list sizes/dimensions they are either as stated on the item/label by the supplier/manufacturer or reasonably accurately hand tape measured; however, they are not necessarily precise, should be taken as approximate and not relied upon where absolute precision is required. This clause does not in any way affect your rights under the terms of my ‘Returns Policy’, it is stated to prevent unnecessary inconvenience to both parties.

INFORMATION: Whilst I take care to try and provide accurate information on the original listing it is possible that new information may become available to me afterwards. I therefore strongly recommend that all bidders read any revisions and the ongoing questions / answers section of the listing before bidding as they may contain updated information which could affect your valuation of the item(s). In the event that new information is published, after the time you have become the high bidder, which adversely affects your valuation of the item(s) and you wish to withdraw from the bidding process please email your request and I will use the cancel bid option with no ongoing liability to any of the parties involved in the auction.

PHOTOGRAPHS: All photographs contained within this listing show the actual item (s) offered – they are not catalogue, archive or library photographs.  Furthermore they are direct images and not re-touched or modified in any way. I try to make good and comprehensive use of images on the listing in order to give the prospective bidder the best opportunity to evaluate the item(s); however it is possible that in some circumstances the photographs can enhance the appearance of the item(s) due to compression so please take this into account before bidding and do not hesitate to ask for more images or information which I am happy to send by attachment to email. This is particularly recommended with overseas buyers where returns are often not a viable option.  

OVERSEAS BUYERS WELCOME: I am pleased to deal with buyers from anywhere in the world. My method of LP packaging reduces the risk to your valuable vinyls & covers in transit. Makes no sense to me to buy something important and then play the ‘high risk of damage game’ when having it shipped around the world – I hope you feel the same. Unless the prospective bidder / buyer states a preference I always quote Airmail as Surface Mail does not usually cost much less and takes a long time (again more risk of damage or loss I think). Also please note that for British Pounds £3.30 extra you can have an International Signed for service which includes insurance up to £32. Insurance quotations to a value you specify in advance of shipping are available on request.

PACKING & POSTAGE:  Vinyl’s are removed from covers and placed in separate transit sleeves. All components are then placed side by side in a polythene inner for extra safety and water resistance and then secured between two corrugated card stiffeners. I use ‘Premium Quality 600 Micron Card Mailers’ with ‘Ultra Safe’ double 3.5 cm. wide latex strips across the whole of the mailer which provides excellent adhesion and protection. Internally I use 2 of the highest grade ‘B’ flute corrugated card stiffeners to prevent bending, deformation or edge/corner creasing. Packing & postage prices are NOT negotiable on items dispatched individually or separately. However, if you are a similar time multiple buyer where all items purchased are being sent to the same address and they can be combined safely, you can ask for a discounted quotation before bidding. I will always try to be fair with buyers on p&p costs but if you do not want to pay the prices on the listings or quotations please do not bid.  I am not interested in hearing from successful bidders afterwards questioning and complaining about cost of packing and postage! I always keep proof of posting but unless you pay for Recorded Delivery, International Signed For, Special Delivery or Full Insurance I may not be able to assist you with recovery of the item or any of the costs.

Where postal insurance is included it is subject to Royal Mail Standard Terms & Conditions. Quotations for other insurance or premiums to cover increased values are available on request

PAYMENT: For Buyers WITHIN the UK: PayPal, or Pound sterling cheques/money orders with minimum 7 days to clear before despatch are all acceptable forms of payment.

PAYMENT: For Buyers OUTSIDE of the UK: Payments by PayPal only please.

CANCELLATION: The Seller reserves the right to cancel any bid, entirely at his discretion and without giving prior notice, in the following circumstances:

They have reason to believe that the bidder has not complied with the terms of their offer as set out on the listing.

The bidder’s feedback is of such limited quantity that it cannot be regarded as reliable.

The bidder’s feedback is of dubious quality and/or gives the seller any indication or reason to doubt the credibility of the bid.

MY FEEDBACK POLICY: I leave feedback for buyers after they inform me that they have received the item(s) and have left me their feedback. As I have a clearly stated Returns Policy, which does not expose the buyer to any direct loss whatsoever, I see no reason for either side to indulge in negative feedback. Providing the buyer does not engage in threats, abuse or use of negative feedback I will resolve any problem in a fair and reasonable way. If you have a problem or complaint about any transaction you have made with me contact me on somemightsell_e@btinternet.com and we will find a solution that is acceptable to you.

PLEASE NOTE: eBay TRUST & SAFETY CANCELLED MY ‘DOGFEET’ ALBUM LISTING ON THE 10th.JANUARY 2007, WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE OR COMMUNICATION, SUBSEQUENTLY INFORMING ME THAT THEY HAD DONE SO BECAUSE I WAS SOLICITING CASH PAYMENT IN MY OFFER. IN MY OPINION THIS IS NOT A TRUE STATEMENT OR RATIONAL DECISION ON THEIR PART; I MERELY STATED ON MY LISTINGS THAT I ENABLE CASH PAYMENTS SHOULD THE BUYER CHOOSE, AS I HAVE BEEN ASKED BY BIDDERS IN THE PAST IF THIS IS A POSSIBILITY - ON THE CONTRARY THE LISTINGS STATE CLEARLY THAT I PREFER PAYPAL OR CHEQUE PAYMENT. HOWEVER AS, WHAT I CONSIDER TO BE, THEIR UNREASONABLE ACTION HAS CAUSED MYSELF AND BIDDERS MUCH UNECESSARY INCONVENIENCE I REGRET THAT THIS NOTICE SUPERCEDES ANY PREVIOUS OFFER I MAY HAVE MADE TO ACCEPT CASH PAYMENTS BY REGISTERED POST IN MY LISTINGS. WILL BIDDERS NOTE THAT IN FUTURE I CAN ONLY ACCEPT PAYMENTS BY PAYPAL OR CHEQUE FROM UK BUYERS AND PAYPAL ONLY FROM BUYERS OUTSIDE OF THE UK (THEY ALSO INFORM ME THAT ‘Sellers may accept COD (cash on delivery) or cash for in person transactions.’ PERSONALLY I DON’T SEE THE DIFFERENCE). I HAVE NOW REVISED THIS LISTING AND AMENDED THE PAYMENT TERMS TO COMPLY WITH eBay’s RULES. I APOLOGISE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE AND WILL BE RELISTING THE ‘DOGFEET’ ALBUM FOR SALE AGAIN BY AUCTION ON eBay WITHIN THE NEXT FEW DAYS.