Follow the Birds comp

I'm always happy to find an autographed piece of Canadiana such as this. The back cover of this 7" single features the signatures of Ken Garland, the songwriter, and John Dunbar, who sings the vocal version of this track. Too bad Bobby Merriot wasn't around to sign it for whoever originally owned this record, that would have been a sweet hat-trick.

This article provides some great insight into the song, and how it came about back in 1966. The song was commissioned by various levels of the Victoria BC government. Let's be honest, this is a very sappy song about loving Victoria. File it under "so bad it's good" but I think you'll get a kick out of it. And if the lyrics seem a bit too much for you, you'll love the instrumental version more.

From the liner notes...

Ken Garland: A native British Columbian, Ken Garland came by his love for the picturesque beauty of Victoria and Vancouver Island at an early age while travelling frequently across the Straits with his parents from their home in West Vancouver. His musical training began while in school in the beautiful Okanagan City of Kelowna, and upon leaving there he took up residence in Victoria, where for the past 9 years he has pursued an extensive musical career. It was his continued love for the Island City which inspired his composition "Follow The Birds."

John Dunbar: Since returning to his beloved Victoria from a recent highly successful tour of Great Britain, John has once again been in continuous demand for public appearances and Club engagements. Among John's recording releases is a collection of songs from his native Scotland, and in contrast, his versatility is very evident in his treatment of Follow The Birds.

Bobby Merriot: Well known throughout North America for his brilliant performances with the famed NORAD Band, Bobby, now a resident of Victoria, has greatly enhanced the musical scene in the Pacific Northwest. His flawless sound and endearing showmanship are constantly sought on Stage, Radio, and TV.
-Kevin McGowan