Information/Write-up
Formed in Winnipeg in 1967, Expedition to Earth was one of the most compelling yet under-recognized Canadian psychedelic rock groups of the era. The band featured Danny Norton (lead guitar, vocals), Bernie Barsky (lead vocals), Brian Levin (bass), Dave Mitchell (drums, vocals), and Gail Bowen (vocals), the latter recruited fresh from her stint in Winnipeg’s all-female garage rockers The Feminine Touch.
By 1968, after months of rehearsals and regional shows, the band recorded a 45rpm single at Winnipeg’s CKRC radio station. Norton penned both sides: the fuzz-drenched, phaser-laced title track “Expedition to Earth,” and its raw B-side, “Time Time Time.” The whispered phrase at the end of the A-side—"Examine your past and know your future"—was voiced by Bowen, and left a lasting impression. The finished tracks were enhanced in Montreal with additional studio effects, including the fuzz tone that would define the record's psychedelic sound. The single was released by Franklin Records, a short-lived label launched by Winnipeg agent Frank Weiner, and published by Sabalora Publishing, associated with Lorne Saifer.
The band became known for their powerful stage shows and extensive regional touring across the Canadian Prairies and into Northern Ontario. From venues in Yorkton and Canora, Saskatchewan to Jay’s Disco in Winnipeg and Sioux Lookout, Ontario, they played wherever a crowd could be gathered.
Expedition to Earth developed a loyal following, in part due to Norton's inventive guitar rig: a Mosrite guitar split to both a Garnet Pro amp and Fender Super Reverb, with a unique device called a HERZOG preamp developed by Gar Gillies. This setup allowed Norton to produce a wide range of effects live, without pedals. Their live set included originals and ambitious covers such as "White Rabbit," "Magic Carpet Ride," and "Sky Pilot."
Despite building momentum, internal shifts and external pressures soon fractured the group. Lead singer Bernie Barsky left and was replaced by Edmonton vocalist Gerry Dayle, prompting a change in musical direction. The group moved to Edmonton but splintered soon after. Norton returned to Winnipeg and later formed the bands Seventh House, McFadden, and Madd Hatter, continuing his musical journey into the 1980s.
Interest in Expedition to Earth resurfaced decades later, especially among vinyl collectors. Original pressings of their 45 began fetching hundreds of dollars online, sparking renewed attention. Norton eventually launched a new musical chapter under the name Expedition Back to Earth, revisiting his earlier work and writing new material.
While they released just one record, Expedition to Earth captured the spirit of Canada’s psychedelic underground with an authenticity and vision that still resonates.
-Robert Williston
Danny Norton: lead guitar, vocals
Bernie Barsky: lead vocals
Brian Levin: bass
Dave Mitchell: drums, vocals
Gail Bowen: vocals
Written by Danny Norton
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