King Crimson – Islands represents the progressive rock innovators at their most atmospheric and expansive, captured in this superb Japanese pressing that preserves the album's ethereal beauty and sophisticated arrangements. Originally released in 1971, this 1983 Japanese pressing showcases the band's most lyrical and jazz-influenced period, featuring the transitional lineup that would soon evolve into the legendary Wetton/Bruford era. The Japanese pressing reveals the album's delicate production with stunning clarity. From the gentle opening of "Formentera Lady" to the explosive climax of "Ladies of the Road," every nuanced arrangement emerges with beautiful definition. The band's unique fusion of progressive rock, jazz, and classical elements benefits from the superior Japanese audio engineering, with Robert Fripp's atmospheric guitar work, Mel Collins' expressive saxophone, and Boz Burrell's melodic bass creating a soundscape that sounds more immersive than ever in this excellent pressing. This copy is notable for its excellent to near-mint condition that beautifully preserves the album's original character. The OBI strip remains crisp and vibrant, the insert is well-preserved with lyrics and credits, and the vinyl plays with warm, detailed sound that captures every subtlety of this atmospheric masterpiece. The cover artwork—featuring the mysterious island imagery—looks particularly striking in this Japanese edition, perfectly capturing the album's themes of isolation, beauty, and exploration. A hauntingly beautiful chapter in King Crimson's evolution, preserved in collector-quality condition. DETAILED TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Artist / Title: King Crimson - Islands Format / Pressing: Vinyl LP - Japanese pressing Label & Catalog Number: Polydor 25MM 0264 Year / Country: 1983 - Japan Sleeve/Cover Condition: Near Mint - Minimal handling evidence, clean surfaces Media Condition: Excellent - Light play evidence, plays with excellent clarity Contents: Complete with original OBI strip and insert TRACKLIST Side One: 1. Formentera Lady 2. Sailor's Tale Side Two: 1. The Letters 2. Ladies of the Road 3. Prelude: Song of the Gulls 4. Islands COLLECTOR'S HIGHLIGHTS Rarity: Japanese pressing in excellent to near-mint condition Special Features: Includes original OBI strip and insert Musical Content: Atmospheric progressive rock with jazz and classical influences Authenticity: Confirmed by Polydor catalog number 25MM 0264 SALE TERMS & SHIPPING Shipping: Within 1 or 2 business days after payment Packaging: Professional, secure vinyl mailer | Record shipped outside the cover to prevent seam splits Vinyl Care: All our vinyl records are professionally cleaned with an ultrasonic machine before shipping. We also include a free outer sleeve and new inner sleeve. Shipping Areas: Worldwide Payment: Required within 3 days after auction closes ABOUT THE SELLER A passionate collector for over 30 years, my journey through music has been a lifelong adventure. With the creation of STREAMZER, I've chosen to share this profound love for music and records with enthusiasts around the world. Each record from my collection has been carefully selected, stored in optimal conditions, and handled with the respect that these musical treasures deserve. I'm delighted to offer these pieces to fellow music lovers who understand their true value. Happy bidding! Musically, Olivier