Tears for Fears Songs from the Big Chair LP VG+ 1985 HRM 1st Press Mercury SRC
$
26
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Description
Original 1985 U.S. pressing of Songs from the Big Chair by Tears for Fears. This HRM variant features Sterling mastering, the original Mercury label (ID 53), and the 0501 sleeve code. Runouts match the verified HRM 1st pressing with “STERLING H” and “STERLING V” etchings on sides A and B respectively.
By 1985, Tears for Fears weren’t just riding the wave of New Wave, they were reshaping it. Songs from the Big Chair turned emotional complexity into pop gold, giving us arena-sized synth anthems without losing the melancholy. "Shout" and "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" weren’t just chart-toppers, they became staples of the decade, defining the sound of contemplative rebellion on the FM dial.
This original U.S. pressing is part of that story: cut hot at Sterling Sound, pressed at Hauppauge (HRM), and released on Mercury’s distinctive black label with bold orange lettering. The matrix numbers are etched cleanly in the dead wax, making this a verified and desirable early copy.
Label: Mercury – 824 300-1 M-1
Matrix / Runout (A): 422-824-300-1-AS-HRM 1 B- STERLING H
Matrix / Runout (B): 422-824-300-1-BS-HRM 1 B- STERLING V
Label ID: 53
Sleeve Plant Code: 0501
Mastered at Sterling Sound (STERLING stamp both sides)
No barcode, original Mercury sleeve
HRM pressing = Hauppauge Record Manufacturing, NY
Record is VG+ with a few light marks but strong gloss and solid playback
Jacket is VG with light corner/shelf wear and faint ring wear. see pics.
No printed inner sleeve included
A defining synth-pop album with audiophile mastering—this one still rules the world.
📸 See photos for full condition and details.
Check my other listings. I'm adding more vintage LPs regularly and I'm happy to combine shipping.
Returns accepted within 14 days. Buyer pays return shipping.
I do my best to visually grade all records accurately, including detailed photos of the vinyl, labels, jacket, and inner sleeves. These are vintage albums and may have cosmetic wear or surface noise. If you feel the condition doesn’t match the description, just reach out. I want happy buyers and hassle-free transactions.
Ships safely in a Whiplash mailer with extra care.
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