Cold Chisel, Cold Chisel

Their First Album

With KENDUN in the runout groove, high quality Audio from this original press.

Hard to find originals in this condition.

Artist: Cold Chisel Title: Cold Chisel Album Type: Debut Studio Album (Original Vinyl Release) Original Release Date: April 24, 1978 Label: Atlantic Records (Catalog: 600038) Genre: Pub Rock / Blues Rock / Hard Rock

Background & Production Formed in Adelaide in 1973, Cold Chisel’s self-titled debut was the result of five years spent honing their "tough outsider" sound in the grueling Australian pub circuit. Recorded at Trafalgar Studios in Sydney and produced by Peter Walker (formerly of the band Bakery), the album was rushed to release to coincide with a tour opening for Foreigner. While songwriter Don Walker later expressed some embarrassment over the "flowery" nature of his early lyrics, the record is now revered as a raw, elemental capture of lightning in a bottle. It peaked at #38 on the Australian charts, marking the beginning of their reign as the definitive voice of Australian working-class rock.

Musical Composition & Style The album is a masterclass in dynamic range, moving from aggressive boogie-rock to sophisticated, jazz-inflected blues.

• The Anthem: Features the legendary "Khe Sanh." Despite being banned from commercial radio upon release due to its lyrical content regarding a disillusioned Vietnam veteran, it became a permanent fixture of Australian culture.

• Vocal Contrast: Showcases the dual threat of Jimmy Barnes’ "razor-wire" screams on tracks like "Juliet" and Ian Moss’ soulful, liquid lead vocals on "One Long Day" and "Rosaline."

• Instrumental Prowess: Highlighted by Don Walker’s gritty organ work and the locked-in rhythm section of Phil Small (Bass) and Steve Prestwich (Drums).

• Guest Personnel: Includes notable saxophone contributions from Joe Camilleri (Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons) and Wilbur Wilde (Ol' 55).

Original Pressing & Collector Notes As a cornerstone of Australian rock history, original 1978 pressings are highly prized for their historical weight and specific sonic qualities.

• Identification: Look for the Atlantic label (distributed by WEA) with the catalog number 600038. Original Australian pressings feature a distinct gatefold sleeve with artwork by Abby Beaumont.

• The "KENDUN" Stamp: High-quality early pressings often feature a "KENDUN" stamp in the runout (dead wax), indicating the masters were sent to the world-renowned Kendun Recorders in the US for superior fidelity.

• Condition Challenges: Because this album was a staple of "pub rock" households and parties throughout the late 70s, finding a "Near Mint" copy with a clean, un-battered gatefold is becoming increasingly difficult.

• 2016 Reissue: A 180g reissue was released in 2016 through Universal/CCLP001, which is an excellent alternative for listeners seeking a quiet, "heavy wax" experience without the premium price of a 1978 first press.

  • • Keywords: Cold Chisel, Self-Titled, 1978 Vinyl, Khe Sanh, Jimmy Barnes, Ian Moss, Pub Rock, Australian Rock, Atlantic 600038, First Pressing.

    • Collection Ideas: Australian Rock Foundations, Pub Rock Legends, First Pressing Grails, Essential 70s Rock.

    • Related Artists: Midnight Oil, The Angels, INXS, Richard Clapton, Jimmy Barnes (Solo).

     

MINT - sealed

NM - likely never played - almost perfect

VG+ - light scuffs, light scratches wont effect play

VG -  signs of wear, light scratches you can feel

GOOD -  surface noise, visible groove wear

POOR / FAIR- some damage, causing issues like skipping & distorted audio

OIS - original inner sleeve