Clarence Carter – This Is Clarence Carter (1968) - Rare WLP (Radio DJ/Mono Copy)

$

50

An incredibly rare, historically significant 1968 true monaural promotional first pressing of Clarence Carter’s seminal debut soul album, This Is Clarence Carter, released on Atlantic Records (Catalog: SD 8192).
This authentic, DJ-exclusive copy features the distinctive Atlantic White Label Promotional design and is stamped with the exact matrix configurations: A-12791-A (Side A) / A-12792-A (Side B). Handled almost exclusively by radio disc jockeys upon release, true mono versions of this Southern soul landmark album are highly coveted collector's items.
By late 1968, the commercial music industry was rapidly finalizing its conversion to stereo-only retail distribution, making true mono variations obsolete for the general public. Atlantic Records manufactured monaural pressings of this LP in extremely scarce, limited numbers specifically for AM radio broadcast play.
Unlike the standard commercial stereo release, this dedicated monaural mix brings Clarence Carter's deep, grit-infused vocals and his stinging lead guitar work right to the foreground. Recorded at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and produced by Rick Hall, the mono master delivers a warmer, much harder-driving rhythm groove. It provides an immense sonic platform for the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section ("The Swampers") and the crisp horn section, magnifying classic hits like "Slip Away", "Looking For A Fox", and "Thread The Needle".
Item Specifics • Artist: Clarence Carter • Album Title: This Is Clarence Carter • Label: Atlantic Records • Catalog Number: SD 8192 • Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, White Label Promo, Monaural • Country of Release: United States • Release Year: 1968 • Matrix / Runout (Side A Etched): A-12791-A • Matrix / Runout (Side B Etched): A-12792-A • Genre: Funk / Soul / Blues • Style: Southern Soul, Rhythm & Blues
Condition Grading:
Vinyl Condition: Excellent (EX) to Near Mint (NM).  The white promo labels are clean with no writing or spindle marks. The vinyl retains its brilliant original factory luster. There are some “scuff” marks on the vinyl which do not affect playability or sound quality.
Jacket Condition: Very Good Plus (VG+). Solid, thick cardboard sleeve, structurally sound with crisp edges, minor shelf wear at the corners, no seam splits, no cut-out holes. Original inner sleeve included.