Nina Nastasia – The Blackened Air

My bud blind bought a copy of this, and we just threw it on to break in an old Pioneer turntable I’ve been restoring for the last month.

Don’t get the comments about the crackles. Yes, there were some stray pops and clicks for the first minute or so (likely static build-up from being pulled out of the sleeve for the first time). No wet clean, no anti-static brush, right onto the platter. After the first minute, not a single pop nor noticeable surface noise. About as good a modern press you’ll find these days.

My table’s leveled and the tone arm is calibrated to my cart’s recommend tracking weight by .02g. As long as you have your gear dialed in, you should have no issues enjoying this incredible repress.

Side note: could anyone confirm if this was pressed at Smashed Plastic? The edges feel similar to other presses of theirs (Wilco’s “floral ice” variant of Cousins comes to mind) and the quality is on par as well.

Dang, glad I came here first before buying. I was so excited when I saw this was back in print. Doesn’t sound like a good press :(

Probably the worst, most crackly new vinyl I’ve purchased (sealed) in the last ten years. Awful. Avoid. A pity, because it’s a beautiful album that deserved a lot better.

Beautiful edition. It's a pity that my copy creaks a bit.

After a couple of plays this has no crackles whatsoever, it sounds absolutely amazing...

"100% recyclable material" means this cover will physically degrade in 25 years or less. :/

I've had two sealed copies of this so far, both unlistenably scratched on one side.

Reissue of this beautiful classic coming in October so scalp while ya can!