Pink Floyd Unveils ‘Animals 50’: Exclusive ‘Sheep (Original Radio Edit)’ and Rare Treasures

A Legendary Return: Pink Floyd Celebrates 50 Years of ‘Animals’

Music history is about to get a massive upgrade. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of one of the most biting and atmospheric albums in rock history, Pink Floyd is launching Animals 50. Set for release via Sony on January 22, this expansive reissue is a goldmine for die-hard fans and new listeners alike.

The highlight that has everyone talking is the release of the Pink Floyd Sheep (Original Radio Edit), offering a unique perspective on one of the album’s most powerful compositions. But the surprises don’t stop there.

What’s Inside the ‘Animals 50’ Reissue?

This isn’t just a simple remaster; it’s a comprehensive archival project. The collection delves deep into the vaults to bring listeners content that has remained hidden for decades. Here is what you can expect:

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• Unheard Tracks: Including the rare Roger Waters solo cut “Young Nicholas Jon”.
• Alternative Versions: Previously unreleased versions of the epic tracks “Sheep” and “Dogs”.
• Live Experience: A full recording of the band’s legendary 1977 performance at the Oakland Coliseum Arena, captured by the visionary teen bootlegger Reinhard Hohlwein.
• Multiple Formats: Available in high-fidelity vinyl, CD, and digital download.

Beyond the Music: Art and History

For the collectors, the box set includes a stunning 64-page hardcover book. This tome provides an intimate look at the creation of the album, featuring:

• Detailed liner notes by acclaimed author Jonathan Lethem.
• An exclusive interview with Reinhard Hohlwein.
• Insights from Aubrey “Po” Powell of the legendary design group Hipgnosis regarding the iconic Battersea Power Station cover art.
• Never-before-seen photographs from the recording sessions and the subsequent tour.

The Spirit of ’77: David Gilmour on the Punk Influence

Animals has always stood out for its raw energy and cynical edge. Reflecting on the era, David Gilmour noted that the musical landscape of 1977 played a pivotal role in the album’s direction. With the rise of punk rock, the band shifted away from the ethereal soundscapes of Wish You Were Here toward something more aggressive.

“The mood in music was changing in ’77. Punk music was hitting everything… it’s quite an aggressive, stripped-back album. It was moving away from the sort of soundscapes that we had on Wish You Were Here. This album is more in your face and more rough and ready.”

Following the success of last year’s 50th-anniversary edition of Wish You Were Here, Animals 50 solidifies Pink Floyd’s legacy as masters of the concept album. Whether you are revisiting the social commentary of the 70s or discovering the Pink Floyd Sheep (Original Radio Edit) for the first time, this release is an essential addition to any music library.

For more information on the legacy of progressive rock, you can explore the archives at AllMusic.