Multisided record

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A "multisided" record is a type of vinyl record which provides a track on the record with more than one groove per side. This technique allows hidden tracks to be encoded on LPs, 45 rpms and 78 rpms. On a track that has a "multi-groove," whether you play the track or the hidden track depends on where one cues the stylus.

The most frequently cited example of a multiple-groove record is Monty Python's infamous "three-sided" Matching Tie and Handkerchief album, issued in 1973. One side of the album (both sides were mischievously labeled "Side 2") was "normal"; the other contained a pair of grooves, each of which held different material (later pressings of the record did not include the double groove.)

Another memorable example of a multiple-groove recording was the 1980 flexi disc entitled It's A Super-Spectacular Day issued by MAD magazine. The disc played a standard introductory section about the start of a wonderful, "super-spectacular" day, then produced one of several different comedic "bad" endings to that day, involving such topics as alien abduction, zits, and the horrors of a visiting mother-in-law.

Other uses to which multiple-groove recordings have been put include various games (such as horse races or mystery games) where the outcome is determined by which of the record's multiple grooves is played.

Some modern-day records have incorporated this feature, including:

    • A Laurie Anderson LP featuring a "three-track" side: each track contained a different recording of the song "You're The Guy I Want To Share My Money With" variously performed by Laurie Anderson, William Burroughs, or John Giorno.
    • The 12" version of Kate Bush's "Sensual World," with one track containing the standard vocal version and the other playing an instrumental version.
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