CRISPIAN MILLS Healing Hands / Be Merciful (2010 UK strictly limited edition 2-track AA-track 7" vinyl single - A decade ago, following sales of over a million for both 'K' and 'Pigs and Astronaughts', Crispian Mills sought out a new challenge and a break from Kula Shaker. With good advice, Crispian hired the services of Mark Pritchard [Harmonic 313, Troubleman, Global Communications and many more] and David Brinkworth [Harmonic 33, Farout Recordings] and set off to make a solo album.The album never got released, and almost 10 years later Ho Hum Records have unearthed two gems from the period in 'Healing Hands' & 'Be Merciful'. 'Healing Hands' has 60's Kings Road swagger in abundance with its Donovan-esque poise. This is chic and up-beat, catchy and authentic. Backing vocals and bass come from the wonderful Kim K while Mr Pritchard leans with science and production. While the flip is what Crispian does so well. Mystical folk / psych reminiscent of some of the finer moments on the Kula Shaker debut 'K' - 'Be Merciful' is delicious, strange and endearing and one fans of Kula Shaker have been clawing to get after since Crispian played it live not so long ago)