Pink Floyd Animals 8-Track Version Download: A Guide for Fans
If you are a fan of Pink Floyd, you probably know that their album Animals is one of their most acclaimed and influential works. But did you know that there is a rare and special version of this album that was only released on 8-track tape? This version features a guitar solo by Snowy White that is not found on any other format, making it a collector's item and a treat for audiophiles. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the 8-track version of Animals, including its history, its differences from other versions, how to download it, how to play it, and how to enjoy it. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a curious listener, this guide will help you discover a new way to experience this classic album.
The History of 8-Track Tapes
Before we dive into the details of the 8-track version of Animals, let's take a look at the history of 8-track tapes. What are they, how were they invented, and why were they popular?
pink floyd animals 8-track version download
8-track tapes, also known as Stereo 8 or eight-track cartridges, were a type of magnetic tape sound recording technology that was popular from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s. They were used for playing pre-recorded music, especially in cars, where they offered a convenient and continuous loop playback. Unlike vinyl records or cassette tapes, they did not have to be flipped over or rewound to play the entire album.
The 8-track tape was developed by a consortium led by Bill Lear, the founder of Lear Jet Corporation, along with Ampex, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Motorola, and RCA Victor Records. The idea was to create a portable and durable sound system that could be used in airplanes, cars, and homes. The first prototype was made in 1964, based on an earlier design by George Eash called Fidelipac. The first commercial release was in September 1965, when Ford offered 8-track players as an option in its Mustang, Thunderbird, and Lincoln models. The first pre-recorded tapes were produced by RCA Victor Records.
The popularity of 8-track tapes grew rapidly in the late 1960s and early 1970s, as more car manufacturers installed them as standard or optional features. Many music artists and labels released their albums on 8-track tapes, along with vinyl records and cassette tapes. Some of the best-selling albums on 8-track tapes include The Beatles' Abbey Road, Led Zeppelin's Led Zeppelin IV, Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours, and Eagles' Hotel California. 8-track tapes also allowed for some creative and experimental uses, such as quadraphonic sound, sound collage, and tape loops.
However, by the late 1970s, 8-track tapes began to decline in popularity, as they faced competition from cassette tapes, which were smaller, cheaper, and easier to record. 8-track tapes also had some drawbacks, such as poor sound quality, limited playing time, and frequent malfunctions. The last major label to release an 8-track tape was Columbia Records in 1982, with Billy Joel's 52nd Street. The last known commercial release of an 8-track tape was Fleetwood Mac's Greatest Hits in 1988. Today, 8-track tapes are mostly obsolete, but they still have a cult following among collectors and enthusiasts.
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The Story of Pink Floyd Animals Album
Now that we have some background on 8-track tapes, let's move on to the story of Pink Floyd Animals album. What is it about, how was it made, and what makes it special?
Pink Floyd Animals is the tenth studio album by the legendary British rock band Pink Floyd. It was released on January 23, 1977, by Harvest Records in the UK and Columbia Records in the US. It is a concept album that is loosely based on George Orwell's dystopian novel Animal Farm, which depicts a society where animals overthrow their human oppressors and establish a totalitarian regime. The album uses animals as metaphors for different classes and groups of people in the mid-1970s Britain, which was facing economic and social turmoil. The album consists of five tracks: Pigs on the Wing (Part One), Dogs, Pigs (Three Different Ones), Sheep, and Pigs on the Wing (Part Two). The tracks are divided into three categories: dogs represent the ruthless and greedy businessmen and politicians; pigs represent the corrupt and oppressive leaders and authorities; and sheep represent the passive and ignorant masses. The album also features a hidden message at the end of Sheep, where a voice recites Psalm 23 with altered lyrics that mock religion as a tool of oppression.
The album was recorded at Britannia Row Studios in London from April to December 1976. It was produced by Pink Floyd members Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Richard Wright, and Nick Mason, along with engineer Brian Humphries. The album marked a departure from the band's previous albums, such as Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here, which were more melodic and symphonic. Animals was more raw and aggressive, featuring heavy guitar riffs, distorted vocals, and harsh lyrics. The album also showcased the growing tensions and conflicts within the band, especially between Waters and Gilmour. Waters was the main songwriter and conceptualist of the album, while Gilmour was the main vocalist and guitarist. Wright and Mason had less creative input and influence on the album than before.
The album was a commercial and critical success, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart and number three on the US Billboard 200. It sold over four million copies worldwide and was certified quadruple platinum by the RIAA. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised its concept, lyrics, music, and production. Rolling Stone magazine called it "one of the most extreme, relentless, harrowing albums in rock". The album also influenced many other artists and genres, such as punk rock, progressive rock, metal, alternative rock, and grunge.
The Differences Between the 8-Track and Other Versions of Animals
So what makes the 8-track version of Animals different from other versions? How does it sound and what does it offer?
The main difference between the 8-track version of Animals and other versions is that it features a guitar solo by Snowy White on Pigs on the Wing. Snowy White is a British guitarist who was hired by Pink Floyd as a backup musician for their live shows in 1976 and 1977. He also played with Thin Lizzy and Roger Waters in the 1980s. He is known for his bluesy and melodic style of playing. He recorded the solo for Pigs on the Wing as a favor for Waters, who wanted to fill the gap between the two parts of the song on the 8-track tape. The solo was not included on other formats, such as vinyl, cassette, or CD, because they did not have the same gap problem. The solo was also not performed live by Pink Floyd or White, making it a rare and exclusive feature of the 8-track version.
The 8-track version of Animals also has some minor differences in the track listing and the song lengths from other versions. The track listing is as follows:
ProgramTrackLength
1Pigs on the Wing (Part One)1:25
1Dogs17:03
2Dogs (continued)1:17
2Pigs (Three Different Ones)11:30
3Pigs (Three Different Ones) (continued)1:34
3Sheep10:21
4Pigs on the Wing (Part Two)1:23
4Pigs on the Wing (Part One) (with Snowy White guitar solo)3:25
4Pigs on the Wing (Part Two) (with Snowy White guitar solo)3:26
The total length of the 8-track version is 51:34, which is slightly longer than other versions, which are around 41 minutes. The reason for this is that some songs are split into two parts to fit into the four programs of the 8-track tape, and some songs have longer fade-outs or fade-ins to avoid abrupt cuts. The most noticeable difference is that Pigs on the Wing (Part One) and Pigs on the Wing (Part Two) are repeated at the end of program 4, with Snowy White's guitar solo added.
How to Download the 8-Track Version of Animals
If you are interested in downloading the 8-track version of Animals, you might be wondering where to find it and how to get it. Unfortunately, there is no official or legal way to download this version, as it was never released digitally by Pink Floyd or their record label. However, there are some unofficial and illegal ways to download it, which we do not endorse or recommend. These include:
Finding a torrent or a file-sharing site that has a copy of the 8-track version. This might be difficult, as this version is rare and not widely available online. You will also need a torrent client or a file-sharing software to download it.
Finding a YouTube video that has the 8-track version uploaded. This might be easier, as there are some videos that have the full album or parts of it. You will also need a YouTube downloader or a converter to download it.
Finding an original 8-track tape of Animals and ripping it to your computer. This might be the most authentic and satisfying way, but also the most expensive and complicated. You will need to buy an 8-track tape of Animals, which can cost anywhere from $10 to $100 depending on its condition and rarity. You will also need an 8-track player and a cable to connect it to your computer. You will also need a software to record and edit the audio.
No matter which way you choose to download the 8-track version of Animals, you should be aware of the risks and consequences involved. You might be violating the copyright laws and the rights of the artists and the record label. You might also expose your computer to viruses, malware, or spyware. You might also face legal actions or penalties from the authorities or the rights holders. Therefore, we advise you to download the 8-track version of Animals at your own risk and discretion.
How to Play the 8-Track Version of Animals
Once you have downloaded the 8-track version of Animals, you might be wondering how to play it and enjoy it. What equipment and software do you need to listen to this version?
There are two main ways to play the 8-track version of Animals: using an 8-track player or using a digital media player. Here are the pros and cons of each method:
MethodProsCons
Using an 8-track player- The most authentic and nostalgic way to listen to this version- The best sound quality and fidelity, as it preserves the original analog format- The most fun and interactive way to listen to this version, as you can switch between programs and adjust the volume and tone- The most expensive and complicated way to listen to this version, as you need to buy an 8-track player and a tape- The most fragile and unreliable way to listen to this version, as the tape can wear out, break, or jam- The most inconvenient and limited way to listen to this version, as you need a power source and a speaker system
Using a digital media player- The cheapest and easiest way to listen to this version, as you only need a computer or a smartphone and a pair of headphones or speakers- The most versatile and flexible way to listen to this version, as you can play it on any device and any platform- The most convenient and accessible way to listen to this version, as you can play it anytime and anywhere- The least authentic and nostalgic way to listen to this version, as it loses some of the charm and uniqueness of the 8-track format- The worst sound quality and fidelity, as it converts the analog signal into a digital one- The least fun and interactive way to listen to this version, as you cannot switch between programs or adjust the volume and tone
No matter which way you choose to play the 8-track version of Animals, you should be aware of the benefits and drawbacks involved. You should also respect the artistic vision and integrity of Pink Floyd and their album. You should not alter, edit, or remix the 8-track version of Animals without their permission or consent.
How to Enjoy the 8-Track Version of Animals
Now that you know how to download and play the 8-track version of Animals, you might be wondering how to enjoy it and appreciate it. What tips and suggestions do we have for listening to this version?
Here are some ideas for enjoying the 8-track version of Animals:
Listen to it in its entirety, without skipping or shuffling tracks. This will help you understand the concept and the flow of the album better.
Listen to it in a quiet and comfortable environment, without distractions or interruptions. This will help you focus on the music and the lyrics better.
Listen to it with an open mind and an attentive ear. This will help you notice the differences and the details of this version better.
Listen to it with a critical and analytical eye. This will help you interpret the themes and messages of this version better.
Listen to it with a sense of curiosity and wonder. This will help you enjoy the musical and artistic achievements of this version better.
The Themes and Messages of Animals
One of the reasons why Animals is such a great album is that it has some profound and relevant themes and messages that reflect the social and political issues of the mid-1970s Britain. What are some of these themes and messages, and how do they relate to the 8-track version of Animals?
Some of the themes and messages of Animals are:
The critique of capitalism and consumerism. The album criticizes the greed and corruption of the dogs, who exploit and manipulate the sheep for their own benefit. The album also criticizes the wastefulness and superficiality of the pigs, who live in luxury and decadence while ignoring the suffering of the sheep. The album suggests that capitalism and consumerism create a system of inequality and injustice that harms both the individual and the society.
The critique of authoritarianism and totalitarianism. The album criticizes the oppression and violence of the pigs, who use their power and authority to control and dominate the sheep. The album also criticizes the brainwashing and propaganda of the pigs, who use religion, education, and media to deceive and manipulate the sheep. The album suggests that authoritarianism and totalitarianism create a system of fear and conformity that stifles both the freedom and the creativity of the people.
The critique of apathy and ignorance. The album criticizes the passivity and complacency of the sheep, who accept and obey the rules and roles imposed by the dogs and the pigs. The album also criticizes the lack of awareness and resistance of the sheep, who fail to recognize and challenge the injustice and exploitation they face. The album suggests that apathy and ignorance create a system of alienation and suffering that prevents both the growth and the happiness of the people.
The call for rebellion and revolution. The album encourages the awakening and empowerment of the sheep, who realize their potential and strength as a collective force. The album also encourages the action and change of the sheep, who rise up against their oppressors and overthrow them. The album suggests that rebellion and revolution create a system of justice and equality that benefits both the individual and the society.
These themes and messages are relevant to the 8-track version of Animals, as they are enhanced by the format and the features of this version. For example:
The 8-track format allows for a continuous loop playback, which creates a sense of repetition and cycle that reinforces the concept of the album.
The 8-track format allows for a seamless transition between tracks, which creates a sense of coherence and flow that enhances the narrative of the album.
The 8-track format allows for a split between programs, which creates a sense of contrast and balance that highlights the differences and similarities between the categories of animals.
The 8-track format allows for a unique guitar solo by Snowy White on Pigs on the Wing, which creates a sense of beauty and harmony that contrasts with the harshness and discord of the rest of the album.
The Musical and Artistic Achievements of Animals
Another reason why Animals is such a great album is that it has some remarkable musical and artistic achievements that showcase the talents and skills of Pink Floyd members and collaborators. What are some of these achievements, and how do they relate to the 8-track version of Animals?
Some of the achievements of Animals are:
The use of animal sounds and effects. The album features various sounds and effects of dogs, pigs, and sheep, which are used to create a realistic and immersive atmosphere. The sounds and effects are also used to convey the emotions and personalities of the animals, such as aggression, greed, fear, or rebellion. The sounds and effects are integrated with the music and the lyrics, creating a seamless and organic blend.
The use of complex and diverse musical styles and genres. The album features a wide range of musical styles and genres, such as rock, blues, funk, jazz, classical, electronic, and experimental. The album also features a variety of instruments and equipment, such as guitars, keyboards, synthesizers, drums, saxophones, trumpets, violins, and vocoders. The album showcases the versatility and creativity of Pink Floyd members and collaborators, who can play different roles and perform different parts.
The use of long and epic compositions. The album features three long tracks that are over 10 minutes each: Dogs, Pigs (Three Different Ones), and Sheep. These tracks are composed of multiple sections, movements, and themes, creating a complex and rich musical structure. These tracks also feature impressive solos, riffs, chords, melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and transitions, creating a dynamic and expressive musical performance.
These achievements are relevant to the 8-track version of Animals, as they are preserved and enhanced by the format and the features of this version. For example:
The 8-track format maintains the high quality and fidelity of the animal sounds and effects, which makes them sound more realistic and immersive.
The 8-track format respects the integrity and continuity of the musical styles and genres, which makes them sound more diverse and coherent.
The 8-track format accommodates the length and complexity of the compositions, which makes them sound more epic and expressive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 8-track version of Animals is a rare and special version of one of the most acclaimed and influential albums by Pink Floyd. It features a guitar solo by Snowy White that is not found on any other format, as well as some minor differences in the track listing and the song lengths. It offers a different listening experience than other formats, as it preserves the original analog format and the unique features of the 8-track tape. It also enhances the themes and messages of the album, which reflect the social and political issues of the mid-1970s Britain, as well as the musical and artistic achievements of the album, which showcase the talents and skills of Pink Floyd members and collaborators. If you are a fan of Pink Floyd, or if you are curious about this version, we recommend you to download it, play it, and enjoy it. You will not regret it.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers about the 8-track version of Animals:
Is the 8-track version of Animals official or unofficial?The 8-track version of Animals is official, as it was released by Pink Floyd and their record label in 1977. However, it was not authorized or endorsed by all the band members, especially David Gilmour, who did not like the guitar solo by Snowy White.
Is the 8-track version of Animals rare or common?The 8-track version of Animals is rare, as it was only released in limited quantities and in certain regions. It is also hard to find online, as it was never released digitally by Pink Floyd or their record label.
Is the 8-track version of Animals better or worse than other versions?The 8-track version of Animals is neither better nor worse than other versions, as it depends on personal preference and taste. Some people might prefer the 8-track version for its uniqueness and authenticity, while others might prefer other versions for their convenience and quality.
Is the 8-track version of Animals worth downloading or buying?The 8-track version of Animals is worth downloading or buying if you are a fan of Pink Floyd, or if you are interested in this version. However, you should be aware of the risks and consequences involved in downloading or buying this version, as it might be illegal or unsafe.
Is the 8-track version of Animals compatible with other devices or platforms?The 8-track version of Animals is compatible with other devices or platforms if you convert it into a digital format, such as MP3 or WAV. However, you should be careful not to alter, edit, or remix the 8-track version without permission or consent from Pink Floyd or their record label.
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