Phil Collins – Face Value

Catalog #: XSD-16029  |  Side A Matrix: XSD-16029-A- TLC-T nc | Very Good condition

About the Artist

Phil Collins rose to international stardom as the drummer and lead vocalist of the legendary British rock band Genesis, before launching one of the most commercially successful solo careers of the 1980s. Known for his distinctive voice, impeccable drumming technique, and gift for crafting emotionally resonant pop songs, Collins became one of the defining artists of his era — earning Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of Genesis).

About the Album

Face Value (1981) is Phil Collins' debut solo album and one of the most celebrated records of the decade. Born out of the emotional turmoil of his divorce, the album is a raw, deeply personal statement that blends pop, rock, soul, and R&B with a sophisticated studio sheen. Produced by Collins himself alongside Hugh Padgham, it introduced the now-iconic gated reverb drum sound — a technique that would define the sonic landscape of 1980s pop and rock.

The album reached #1 in the UK and broke into the top 10 in the United States, eventually going multi-platinum worldwide. Its success established Collins as a formidable solo force entirely independent of his Genesis identity.

Highlights

• "In the Air Tonight" — The album's haunting, atmospheric opener remains one of the most recognizable songs in rock history. Its slow-building tension and explosive drum fill are the stuff of legend.
• "I Missed Again" — A punchy, horn-driven soul track featuring the Earth, Wind & Fire Horns, showcasing Collins' love of classic R&B.
• "If Leaving Me Is Easy" — A tender, melancholic ballad that highlights Collins' vocal vulnerability and emotional depth.
• "Thunder and Lightning" — A raw, guitar-driven rocker that adds grit and energy to the album's emotional arc.
• "The Roof Is Leaking" — A sparse, acoustic folk-influenced track that strips everything back to reveal the album's emotional core.

Condition

This copy has been carefully cleaned with a Spin-Clean record washer and stored in a new inner plastic sleeve. The vinyl presents with minor surface scuffs typical of a used record; however, it played flawlessly on a quality turntable with no skips. Minor pops and crackles were noted during playback, consistent with the visual grade. The gatefold jacket is in good condition, as shown in the photos.

A solid copy of a landmark album — ideal for the serious collector or the enthusiast looking to add a cornerstone of '80s pop-rock to their shelf.