This isn’t just a standard reprint; it’s a restoration of an album that was originally quite difficult to find in the UK and US in a high-quality format.
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Title: Silver Vibrations
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Label: Expansion Records / Uno Melodic
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Format: Single LP, 140g or 180g Black Vinyl
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Release Date: May 31, 2019 (Special Record Store Day numbered versions also exist under EXRSDLP 64)
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Key Tracks: "Chicago," "Lots of Love," "Keep On Movin’," and "Silver Vibrations."
Why It Is Valuable to Collectors
1. The "Extended Version" Goldmine
The primary draw of Silver Vibrations is that it contains extended versions of tracks that appeared elsewhere in shorter forms. Most notably, "Chicago" on this LP runs for over 7 minutes—a legendary masterpiece of atmospheric jazz-funk that is a "must-have" for club DJs and Roy Ayers aficionados.
2. Historical Context (The Uno Melodic Era)
The early 80s were a transition period for Ayers as he moved from Polydor to his independent venture, Uno Melodic. Records from this era (like this one and the Lots of Love LP) have a distinct "boogie" and "proto-house" feel. Because the original 1983 pressings were often distributed in low quantities, this Expansion reissue (EXLPM64) is the most reliable way to own the music with modern mastering.
3. Record Store Day vs. Standard Reissue
There are two "tiers" to this Expansion release:
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EXRSDLP 64: A limited, numbered edition released for Record Store Day 2019. These are significantly more valuable to "completionist" collectors.
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EXLPM64: The standard retail reissue. While not numbered, it remains in high demand because it often goes "out of stock" for long periods, causing the price to climb on the secondary market.
4. Market Value (2026 Context)
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Retail Price: Originally approx. £19.99 – £24.99.
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Current Resale (EXLPM64): In Mint condition, it typically sells for $35 to $55 (£28–£44).
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RSD Variant (Numbered): Can reach $70+ if it is a low number and still sealed.
Side One
- Silver Vibrations
- Smiling With Our Eyes
Side Two
- D.C. City
- Good Good Music