Enterthedeals John Fogerty CCR Centerfield Vinyl LP
Product Snapshot
Product: John Fogerty CCR Centerfield 2018 BMG Record Store Day Picture Disc (12″ LP) — New, Mint/Sealed
Price: $29.99
Description excerpt: This 12″ LP features the rock artist’s signature sound in stereo, making it a must-have for fans of classic rock and (per the listing) jazz music. Note from seller: TRY CLEANING THE RECORD FIRST!
Introduction
This release is a 2018 Record Store Day picture disc edition of John Fogerty’s “Centerfield” issued by BMG. It targets collectors and fans who want a visually striking, limited-edition vinyl version of Fogerty’s work. This review covers the physical presentation, expected listening experience, use cases, and practical pros and cons to help you decide whether this edition suits your needs.
Overview: Manufacturer, Category, and Intended Use
Manufacturer/Label: BMG (Record Store Day special release).
Product category: 12″ vinyl LP — picture disc, stereo pressing, limited/novelty edition.
Intended use: Playback on a turntable for casual listening and display/collecting. This product appeals to fans of John Fogerty / Creedence Clearwater Revival, vinyl collectors who participate in Record Store Day releases, and buyers who want an eye-catching piece for shelf or wall display.
Appearance, Materials, and Aesthetic
This is a picture disc: the playable vinyl surface incorporates full-color artwork printed on the disc’s core and covered with clear vinyl. The result is a visually attractive, showpiece record rather than a plain black pressing. The disc is sold new and sealed in its original plastic wrap (Mint/Sealed), so you’ll receive it in protected condition.
Aesthetic notes:
- Full-color imagery on the playable surface — ideal for display or framing.
- Shiny, glossy finish typical of picture discs; sleeve and center labels carry BMG/Record Store Day markings.
- Packaging is geared toward collectors — limited-edition feel, not necessarily designed for heavy touring/DJ use.
Unique Design Features
- Picture disc format: integrates artwork into the record itself, making it a visual collectible.
- Record Store Day release: typically a limited edition or special pressing, which can raise collectibility and resale interest.
- Mint/sealed condition from seller — desirable for collectors who prefer untouched copies.
Key Features & Specifications
- Format: 12″ LP picture disc (playable vinyl)
- Playback: Stereo
- Release year (pressing): 2018 (Record Store Day edition)
- Label: BMG (Record Store Day special press)
- Condition: New, Mint/Sealed
- Intended speed: 33 1/3 RPM (standard for full-length albums — verify your copy’s label for exact speed)
- Price (as listed): $29.99
Using the Product: Listening and Practical Experience
Listening: picture discs are fully playable and will deliver the music and performances as intended, but there are trade-offs. Because picture discs are constructed with printed artwork sandwiched into clear vinyl layers, they typically have a higher noise floor and slightly reduced dynamic resolution compared to high-quality black vinyl pressings (especially 180g audiophile pressings). Expect some surface noise and possibly less low-end punch compared with a heavy black vinyl reissue.
Recommended playback tips:
- Clean the record before first play — the seller’s note “TRY CLEANING THE RECORD FIRST!” is sound advice. A carbon-fiber brush and/or a gentle wet-cleaning will reduce dust and static.
- Use a well-aligned cartridge and a good stylus; a worn or poorly aligned stylus will exaggerate any picture-disc surface noise.
- Play it on a dedicated turntable with correct anti-skate and tracking force settings for best results.
Scenarios
Home listening (casual): Excellent — this record makes for enjoyable background or focused listening sessions with the caveat of possible surface noise. The novelty of the picture disc adds charm for fans.
Audiophile listening: Less ideal — serious audiophiles will likely prefer a standard black vinyl pressing or a 180g reissue for the best sonic fidelity. If sound quality is your primary concern, confirm whether a separate audiophile pressing exists.
Collecting / Display: Very good — this edition’s visual appeal and Record Store Day provenance make it a solid choice for collectors and for display in a music room or as part of a vinyl wall.
DJing/Gigging: Not recommended — picture discs are generally more susceptible to wear and surface noise and are not built for heavy cueing or scratching.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Striking visual presentation — picture disc makes an attractive collectible display item.
- Official Record Store Day release from BMG — adds to collectibility and appeal for fans.
- New, mint and still sealed — guarantees an untouched copy with original packaging.
- Good casual listening experience for fans of John Fogerty/CCR.
- Moderate price point ($29.99) for a collectible edition.
Cons
- Picture-disc format often compromises audio fidelity compared with standard black vinyl — expect a higher noise floor and slightly reduced dynamic range.
- Not ideal for audiophiles seeking the cleanest sound or for DJs needing a rugged performance disc.
- Limited-edition releases can have variable pressing quality — one sealed copy does not guarantee perfect pressing; visual printing can sometimes contribute to playback imperfections.
- Limited or no extra liner notes/bonus material commonly found on deluxe reissues (depending on the specific Record Store Day package).
Conclusion
The John Fogerty CCR “Centerfield” 2018 BMG Record Store Day picture disc is a well-presented collectible that will appeal most to fans and vinyl collectors who value visual impact and the exclusivity of a Record Store Day pressing. If you want a showpiece to display and enjoy casually on occasional listening sessions, this sealed picture disc at $29.99 is a reasonable buy.
However, if you prioritize the highest possible audio quality for critical listening, consider seeking a standard black-vinyl or 180g pressing of “Centerfield.” Also, be sure to clean the record before first play and use appropriate playback equipment to minimize surface noise and get the best possible sound from this picture-disc edition.
Overall impression: A visually attractive, collectible release that delivers the music with the typical picture-disc trade-offs — great for collectors and fans, less ideal for audiophile purists.
