Cross Country: S/T (1973)

As I've confessed a number of times here, I have a soft spot for obscure (and, yes, frequently mediocre or at best forgettable) '70s albums, forgotten almost-gems that capture the laid-back vibe of the early part of the decade. (If you missed it, check out the playlist I put together of surprisingly great lost tunes; you're gonna love it.)

Brooklyn-based Cross Country released a lone, self-titled album in 1973, and it's quite nice. It's mostly harmonic Americana, though leaning towards sunshine pop, so light it can just waft away. The band is actually a side-project of The Tokens, the 60s harmony group best known for their version of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," so not surprisingly the harmonies here are the main attraction.

Opener "Today" is yet another great lost Crosby, Stills & Nash (or America) tune, gently picked acoustic guitars and lovely harmonies. Ditto the title track, which almost rocks out a bit. And there's a cover of "In The Midnight Hour" that converts the classic party tune into a lethargic, summer lullaby.

Not exactly a great lost classic, but I enjoy it quite a bit.

"Today" audio rip:

...and "Midnight Hour":