The Beach Boys – Friends (1968) Stereo LP | RCA Promo First Pressing

$

33

An exceptional piece of American pop music history: an authentic, documented 1968 US East Coast first pressing of The Beach Boys’ critically acclaimed, beautifully intimate masterwork, Friends. This particular copy is a highly sought-after industry promotional release, distributed to radio station DJs and music journalists immediately prior to the commercial launch in June 1968. To prevent retail resale, Capitol Records mechanically punched out their signature "FREE" lettering directly through the jacket. For audiophiles and purists, this copy is an ultimate acquisition. The dead wax runout features the coveted "I AM" inside a triangle symbol (△), proving the record was pressed using the elite machinery of Capitol’s legendary Scranton, Pennsylvania plant. Furthermore, it is cut from the absolute earliest master lacquers (A1 on Side B, B2 on Side A), delivering a warm, incredibly lush analog soundstage, punchy acoustic bass, and crystalline vocal harmonies that modern digital remasters simply cannot replicate. 🌟 Key Collector Attributes

• Authentic 1968 Promo Marker: Features the original factory "FREE" punch-out cleanly perforated through the jacket sleeve.
• Scranton Pressing Pedigree: Stamped with the iconic "I AM" Triangle logo, confirming production at Capitol's premier East Coast plant.
• Earliest Lacquer Master Cuts: Stamped A1 and B2 matrix endings, guaranteeing a fresh, deep-groove press from the very first generation of metal stampers.
• Brilliant Analog Audio: Unlike the heavily compressed digital reissues, this original stereo mix highlights the warm, delicate, and organic production style helmed by Brian Wilson.

• Artist: The Beach Boys
• Title: Friends
• Label: Capitol Records
• Catalog Number: ST-2895
• Format: 12" Vinyl LP, Stereo, 33 ⅓ RPM
• Country of Origin: United States (East Coast Distribution)
• Release Date: June 24, 1968
• Matrix / Runout (Side A): ST12895B2 [Stamped 'I AM' Triangle]
• Matrix / Runout (Side B): ST22895A1#2 [Stamped 'I AM' Triangle]
• Genre: Rock, Pop, Psych-Pop, Lo-Fi

• Vinyl Condition: Near Mint (NM). The vinyl retains a brilliant, deep-groove factory gloss. Shows only minor, cosmetic inner-sleeve paper scuffs under bright light.
• Jacket Condition: Very Good Plus (VG+). Structurally solid jacket featuring the crisp, authentic "FREE" promo punch-out. The front cover retains vibrant color registry. The spine text remains entirely clear and legible. Shows standard, light vintage shelf wear along the edges and minor aging on the back slick. No major seam splits or ink writing.