Small Faces – Ogdens’ Nut Gone Flake
A Psychedelic Classic Reborn: New 3CD and Vinyl Reissue Review
Few albums capture the spirit of late-1960s British psychedelia quite like Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake by Small Faces. Originally released in 1968, it remains one of the most distinctive albums of the era — musically adventurous, whimsical, and packaged in one of the most unusual record sleeves ever produced.
Now, this legendary album has returned in two beautifully crafted editions:
- a 3CD expanded edition, and
- a replica vinyl pressing featuring the iconic circular sleeve.
For fans of Small Faces, Steve Marriott, or classic British rock, this new release from Nice Records may well be the definitive way to experience this remarkable album.
The 3CD Expanded Edition
The 3CD set is thoughtfully produced and clearly designed with fans and collectors in mind.
Inside the compact box you’ll find:
- CD1 – Stereo album
- CD2 – Mono album
- CD3 – Rarities and alternate material
The packaging mirrors the design aesthetic of the original Immediate Records releases, with disc artwork inspired by the era’s classic label designs.
A 32-page booklet completes the package, printed on high-quality tactile paper. It contains:
- detailed sleeve notes by Mark Paytress
- historical background on the album
- rare photographs and memorabilia
- contemporary press adverts
- fascinating band information from the time
The set has been digitally remastered by Nick Robbins, ensuring the music sounds as vibrant as ever.
For collectors who already own earlier editions, the depth of the rarities and the quality of the presentation make this a very attractive upgrade.
The Vinyl Edition – A Work of Art
The vinyl release is just as impressive.
Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake famously arrived in a circular sleeve in 1968 — a brilliant but fragile design that rarely survived intact over the decades.
This new edition cleverly solves that problem.
The replica round sleeve now sits inside a protective outer sleeve, allowing it to be safely stored alongside other LPs while preserving the original concept.
The vinyl itself is:
- half-speed mastered
- cut at AIR Studios
- pressed on high-quality vinyl
- housed in a poly-lined inner sleeve
For collectors of physical music, this kind of attention to detail is exactly what makes a reissue truly special.
Once unfolded, the circular sleeve reveals the colourful psychedelic artwork that made the original release such a talking point in the late 60s.
It’s not just packaging — it’s a genuine piece of rock history.
The Music: Whimsical Psychedelia with a Very English Heart
Musically, Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake is a fascinating record.
The album blends:
- psychedelic pop
- music-hall humour
- concept storytelling
- and powerful rock performances
Side two famously features narration by Stanley Unwin, whose playful language adds to the album’s uniquely British charm.
Songs like “Lazy Sunday” bring humour and theatricality, while tracks such as “Afterglow” reveal the extraordinary vocal power of Steve Marriott, one of the greatest rock singers of his generation.
Producer Glyn Johns captured a band at their creative peak — vibrant, energetic, and bursting with personality.
Mono vs Stereo
Listening to the new edition reveals an interesting contrast.
Like many late-1960s recordings, the stereo mix can feel slightly experimental, with instruments separated dramatically across the soundstage.
The mono mix, however, feels more cohesive and powerful — and for many listeners may be the preferred way to experience the album.
Both are included in the CD set, allowing fans to explore the differences.
A Rediscovery for Many Listeners
For many music fans who grew up in the early 1970s — myself included — the Small Faces were sometimes overlooked at the time.
When you were discovering bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, or Status Quo, music from the mid-60s could feel like ancient history, even if it was only a few years earlier.
But rediscovering Ogden’s Nut Gone Flake later in life reveals just how brilliant it is.
Steve Marriott’s voice alone makes it essential listening.
A Reissue Done Right
What makes this release particularly impressive is that both formats have been treated with equal care.
Some labels still treat CDs as an afterthought when a vinyl version exists.
Nice Records have done the opposite.
Both the 3CD edition and the vinyl pressing feel like premium releases, created by people who genuinely understand what fans want.
The involvement of Kenney Jones, along with the passion of producer Rob Caiger, is clear throughout the project.
It sounds fantastic, looks wonderful, and celebrates a timeless record in exactly the way it deserves.
Quite simply, this is how you do a reissue.
Thank you for all your support
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
