The Leaves - Hey Joe - Encapsulated copy - Vinyl record - 1st Mono pressing - 1966

1. General information

Artist: The Leaves
Title: Hey Joe
Label: Surrey Records (packaged in Mira Records sleeve)
Catalog #: LP 3005
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Mono
Country: USA
Released: 1966
Genre: Rock / Garage Rock

2. Description

Offered here is a spectacular copy of the debut album by the Los Angeles-based garage rock pioneers, The Leaves. This 1966 release is centered around their iconic title track, "Hey Joe," which holds the distinction of being the first version of the song to become a hit, paving the way for the later version by Jimi Hendrix. This particular copy is a highly sought-after transitional variant from the dawn of the album's release, featuring the purple Surrey labels. It is a quintessential piece of 1960s garage rock history, capturing the raw energy and "fuzz-tone" sound that defined the era.

3. Condition

This specimen has been professionally authenticated and slabbed by Vintage Media Grading (VMG) with an impressive Overall Grade of 9.0 (Near Mint).

Vinyl: 9.5 (Stunning, virtually pristine wax with exceptional luster).
Cover: 9.0 (Strong, vibrant colors with minimal aging).
Spine: 9.0 (Perfectly legible and structurally sound).
Labels: 9.0 (Clean, centered, and free of significant spindle marks).

4. Notes for collectors

This is a True First Pressing and a rare "anomaly" issue that is highly prized by serious collectors. During the initial production run in 1966, Surrey Records was absorbed by Mira Records. As a result, the very first batch of records was pressed with Surrey labels but placed into the newly printed Mira Records sleeves. To find this specific "Surrey-in-Mira" first issue in such a high, professionally certified grade is an extreme rarity. It is an investment-grade copy of a cornerstone garage rock LP.

5. Matrix/labels

Matrix Side A: 66-2098-A-RE-1 11
Matrix Side B: 66-2098-B RE 1 11
Labels: Original purple Surrey Records labels with silver text and the "LP 3005" catalog number.