Marrakesh Express/ Helplessly Hoping

This is a beautiful copy of this trio's first single. It was terrific to see these major talents from three influential, highly respected 1960s bands — The Byrds (Crosby), Buffalo Springfield (Stills), and The Hollies (Nash) — come together and manage to deliver a lasting body of great music. Besides being great musicians, all three were top-notch songwriters. Soon, Neil Young, another Buffalo Springfield veteran, joined the group, adding his signature guitar, vocals, and songwriting. Note: This copy comes in a vintage Atlantic Records factory sleeve. It has Mint labels, and I was ready to call the untouched-looking vinyl Mint until I noticed (or heard, rather) a few blemishes of manufacturing origin that cause "pops" for a few spins once or twice during the track. The audio is otherwise pristine. The B side appears to have one or two blemishes as well. So, I'm having to lower the Mint grade (this looks like a new, unplayed 45) to a strong EX, and the audio grade from Mint to EX.