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The Enduring Appeal of the Soft Top Album: A Collector’s Guide

For music enthusiasts and collectors, the term “soft top album” evokes a specific image: a vinyl record with a cover that features a slightly padded, textured surface. These albums, popular primarily in the 1960s and 70s, offer a unique tactile experience that sets them apart from standard record releases. The *soft top album* wasn’t just about the music; it was about the presentation, the feeling, and the overall sensory engagement with the artwork. This article explores the history, appeal, and collectibility of these fascinating artifacts of music history.

What is a Soft Top Album?

A *soft top album*, also known as a padded cover album, is a vinyl record where the outer sleeve is covered in a thin layer of padding and a textured material, often resembling leather or velvet. This gives the album cover a soft, luxurious feel. The added layer of padding protects the record inside to a small degree, but the main purpose was aesthetic and sensory. The *soft top album* was designed to be a more premium product, often associated with specific genres or artists aiming for a sophisticated image.

A Brief History of Padded Album Covers

The concept of enhancing album covers goes back further than the 1960s, but the *soft top album* truly gained popularity during this era. Record companies sought ways to differentiate their products in an increasingly crowded marketplace. The *soft top album* was one such innovation. The use of padded covers was not limited to any single genre, though they were more commonly found on albums featuring easy listening, classical music, or soundtracks. The goal was to create a product that felt special, something that consumers would be proud to display and cherish.

The Allure of the Soft Top

So, what makes the *soft top album* so appealing? Several factors contribute to its enduring charm:

Tactile Experience: The soft, padded cover provides a unique sensory experience. Holding a *soft top album* is simply different than holding a standard record. The texture invites you to touch and feel the artwork.
Visual Appeal: The textured cover adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. The *soft top album* stands out on a shelf, drawing the eye and adding a visual element of interest to any collection.
Nostalgia: For many collectors, *soft top albums* evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of music and design. They represent a time when record companies invested in the physical presentation of their products.
Rarity: While not all *soft top albums* are rare, some editions and specific artists are highly sought after by collectors. Finding a pristine copy of a *soft top album* can be a rewarding experience.

Identifying a True Soft Top Album

Not all albums that appear to have a textured cover are genuine *soft top albums*. Some covers may simply have a printed texture effect. Here are some things to look for when identifying a true *soft top album*:

The Feel: A genuine *soft top album* will have a distinct, soft, and slightly padded feel. Run your fingers over the cover; you should be able to feel the texture and the slight give of the padding beneath.
The Construction: Examine the edges of the cover. You may be able to see the layers of material that make up the padded construction.
The Era: *Soft top albums* were most popular in the 1960s and 70s. While they may exist from other periods, albums from this era are most likely to be genuine.
Catalog Information: Research the album online. Collector forums and databases may provide information about whether a particular album was released with a *soft top album* cover.

Notable Soft Top Albums

While a comprehensive list would be extensive, here are a few notable examples of *soft top albums* that are popular among collectors:

Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass – *Whipped Cream & Other Delights* (1965): While not all pressings were soft top, some very desirable versions exist.
Various Artists – *The Graduate* (Soundtrack) (1968): A classic soundtrack with some versions featuring a padded cover.
Many Classical Music Releases: Numerous classical music albums from labels like Deutsche Grammophon and RCA Red Seal were released with padded covers.

Collecting Soft Top Albums: A Guide for Beginners

If you’re interested in starting a *soft top album* collection, here are a few tips:

Do Your Research: Before you start buying, learn as much as you can about *soft top albums*. Identify artists and genres that interest you, and research which of their albums were released with padded covers.
Condition is Key: The condition of the cover is crucial. Look for albums with minimal wear and tear. Avoid albums with significant damage to the padding or texture.
Check the Vinyl: Don’t forget about the record itself! A pristine cover is worthless if the vinyl is scratched or warped.
Browse Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Discogs are great places to find *soft top albums*. Be sure to carefully examine the photos and descriptions before you buy.
Visit Record Stores and Flea Markets: You might get lucky and find a hidden gem at a local record store or flea market.
Join Collector Communities: Connect with other *soft top album* collectors online or in person. You can learn from their experiences and share your own discoveries.

The Future of Soft Top Albums

While the *soft top album* is largely a relic of the past, its appeal endures. As vinyl records continue to experience a resurgence in popularity, there’s a renewed appreciation for the tactile and visual qualities of physical media. It’s unlikely that we’ll see a widespread return to padded covers, but the *soft top album* will continue to be cherished by collectors and music lovers for its unique charm and nostalgic appeal. These albums represent a time when the presentation of music was as important as the music itself. The *soft top album* is more than just a record; it’s a piece of art, a tactile experience, and a reminder of a golden age of music.

The *soft top album* remains a fascinating niche within the world of vinyl collecting. Whether you’re drawn to their tactile appeal, their visual elegance, or their nostalgic charm, these albums offer a unique and rewarding collecting experience. So, start your search today and discover the joy of owning a piece of music history that you can truly feel. Collecting *soft top albums* can be a rewarding hobby.

Consider exploring other vintage formats and music memorabilia as well. [See also: Exploring the World of Vintage Cassette Tapes] and [See also: The Art of Album Cover Design].

Conclusion

The *soft top album* stands as a testament to the artistry and attention to detail that once characterized the music industry. These padded treasures offer collectors a tangible connection to a bygone era, a time when the physical presentation of music was as carefully considered as the sounds within. Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the world of *soft top albums* offers a unique and rewarding journey into the heart of music history. Finding that perfect *soft top album* can be a rewarding experience for any collector. The *soft top album* is a unique collectible.