Michael And The Slipper Tree/ Honey Gum

From a mixed-race British group that featured Eddie Grant as lead vocalist/songwriter, this single was a minor hit in the U.K., but the U.S. release is so rare that most discographies don't even list it. This number reminds me of the Move's "Here We Go Round The Lemon Tree", both of which veer toward Bubblegum in their somewhat childish, precious sensibilities, a peculiarly British sensibility that the Kinks also indulged in occasionally. This single's B side also relishes in Bubblegum-style rocking, melody and lyrics. (Bubblegum songs love to have words that mean or even suggest something "sweet.") This is a beautiful copy of the promo release, which has Near Mint labels but with a "31" stamped on the A side (see scan); the B label is totally clean. The vinyl and audio also grade Near Mint, reflecting a few light scuffs and occasionally audible, light surface noise near the beginning, but no distortion at all, respectively.