Here is a more in-depth update to the review, this time with the inclusion of the 1985 CD edition. At the time of the initial test, I had not yet received this version, and I must admit I was wondering about the lineage of the 2019 CD edition.
Listening to and analyzing this 1985 CD reveals a very dynamic sound, with frequency spectrums that are perfectly identical to those of the 2019 version. It can therefore be reasonably concluded that this reissue is indeed based on the original master, which strengthens its status as a reference.
However, this 1985 disc does more than simply confirm—it also highlights certain notable differences with the vinyl edition released the same year.
The first striking difference lies in the number of tracks: the CD contains 11, while the vinyl has only 10.
We are at the dawn of the digital format, and this initiative clearly illustrates the commercial strategy of the time, which sought to promote the CD by offering additional content.
Moreover, the spectral analysis reveals that the bass is slightly more emphasized on the CD, by a few decibels compared to the vinyl, as illustrated in the graph below.
This technical choice likely aimed to bring more energy and presence to the lower end of the spectrum.
Ultimately, the 1985 CD edition highlights the intention, from the moment the album was released, to differentiate the CD from vinyl and position this emerging format as a major technological advance in the music world.
Find the complete review with the 1985 CD edition HERE (link)
The “Phil Collins” channel features a video by Steven Wilson explaining the creation of the Dolby Atmos mix for the album “No Jacket Required”: