The Decca LK album series launched in June 1950 was devoted to light classical, orchestral and opera music. In late 1954 Decca planned to move to full colour album covers and commissioned an artist called Demilio to do exotic stylised illustrations for some of the Latin and South American inspired orchestra titles. Sadly we have been unable to find anything about the artist but the sleeves here are remarkable for their vibrancy. All were issued between January 1955 and February 1956 and are some of the first colour sleeves issued in the UK.

Robert Farndon / Two Cigarettes
Decca LK 4086 : Jan 1955

Illustrator : Demilio Light orchestral music

Edmundo Ros / Latin American Novelties
Decca LK 4101: Sept 1955

Illustrator : Demilio Latin American music

Edmundo Ros / Calypsos
Decca LK 4102: Sept 1955

Illustrator : Demilio Latin American music

Edmundo Ros / Latin Melodies
Decca LK 4104: Feb 1956

Illustrator : Demilio Latin American music

Mantovani / Waltz Time
Decca LK 4105: Feb 1955

Illustrator : Demilio Light orchestral dance music

Stanley Black / Dancing In The Dark
Decca LK 4107: Sept 1955

Illustrator : Demilio Light orchestral music

Stanley Black / Festival in Costa Rica
Decca LK 4109: Sept 1955

Illustrator : Demilio Latin American dance music

Click on the sleeves for a larger image.

ALBUMS