Ginger Valley - Country Life/Ginger (1970)

Here's a killer, double sider 45 from ex Blue Bus members, originally from Corpus Christi before relocating to Houston, Texas in search of a record deal. Ginger Valley only put out one single, on the International Artists records (13th Floor Elevators, Bubbly Puppy) and this appears to be the last thing that the label would release, on green vinyl too (why not orange?). I'd describe this simply as pure pop with a slight country twang. A bit like Clarence White era Byrds.

Ginger Valley were named as a compromise of two separate ideas "Peace Valley" and "Ginger". Through their short lifespan, the band's line up consisted of the following members; David Garing (guitar), Richard Mauch (rhythm guitar), Edward Clifton (bass), Bobby Donahoe (drums), John Kenney (vocals), John Mitchell (bass), Jeff Burke (guitar) and Stanley Moore (drums).

Ginger Valley (1970) - Blink and you'll miss them

"Country Life" was written by Mauch and Kenney and came backed with "Ginger", written by Clifton and Kenney with production duties handled by label boss Fred Carroll. The band were signed to IA on a five year contract, but the label was going through some serious money problems at the time and would soon fold. Ginger Valley never did get to record their album and sadly only leave behind this great single which shows massive potential on the song writing front. The band split and moved back to Corpus Christi to get regular jobs. What a shame!