Various - What A Groovy Day: The British Sunshine Pop Sound 1967-1972 (Grapefruit Records)(2023)(3CD Box Set)

 Another gem from Grapefruit Records. This 3 CD box set is focused on British bubblegum and sunshine pop from the late 60s to early 70s. These CDs really capture a vibe. From the liner notes we find out that the term 'sunshine pop' was created by a Record Collector editor! Yes, a magazine editor. Apparently, the tag of 'harmony pop' was considered too bland. What was harmony pop? Well, from a U.S. perspective it was the sound of the Beach Boys, The Association, The Mamas & Papas, and The 5th Dimension. This box set is a collection of harmony pop, sunshine pop, and bubblegum pop from a British perspective.  Definitely worth getting if you like melodic music and you enjoy vocal harmonies...but with a British accent! Need a taste? Check out Harmony Grass - What A Groovy Day  How about Barbara Moore - Fly Paradise.

Curt Boettcher - Misty Miracle (2018) (cassette)

My previous post discussed baroque pop and one of the American masters of that sound is Curt Boettcher. This cassette (via Burger) is a reissue of a CD that was originally released in 2000. This recording is made up solo LP sessions, outtakes, demos, and adverts between 1967-1969.  The music is beautiful and very melodic. For example, listen to Misty Mirage or Baby It's Real. Note - I have included the definitive version of Baby It's Real but the demo is as good. That is just on the first side! The rest of the album has a similar feel and quality is high on the remainder of this album. More 60s goodness!