BLACK SKIN BLUE EYED BOYS by EQUALS, THE Compact Disc CANTCD2

Founded by Eddy Grant, The Equals was formed in North London, England and featured John Hall, Pat Lloyd and the Gordon twin brothers Derv and Lincoln. After playing some successful gigs on a Hornsey Rise council estate they released “Hold Me Closer” / “Baby Come Back” as a single. It was a slow burner in the United Kingdom, but in Germany and The Netherlands it went to #1 ‐ a position its re‐issue would later reach in the UK. The year 1968 saw the release of “I Get So Excited” which appeared in the Top 50 of the UK Singles Chart. A string of single releases followed up to 1970, all of which charted in the UK. “Laurel and Hardy” (#35, 1968), “Michael and The Slipper Tree” (#24, 1969), “Viva Bobby” (#6, 1969) and “Black Skin Blue Eyed Boys” (#9, 1970).

Like many groups of the period, The Equals enjoyed copious plays on pirate radio. They also appeared on television throughout Europe, but radio airplay was essential for success and the band recorded many unique versions of their hits, near misses and stage favourites exclusively for radio broadcast. It is those recordings that comprise this album.

I Get So Excited / Baby Come Back / My Life Ain’t Easy / I Won’t Be There / Interview / Softly Softly / Michael and his Slipper Tree / Interview / I Can’t Find A Girl To Love Me / Viva Bobby Joe / (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction / Do Your Thing / Let’s Work Together / Interview / Happy Birthday Girl / Interview / Black Skin Blue Eyed Boys / I Don’t Want Nobody / Ain’t Got Nothing To Give You / Give Love A Try