Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Bob Bradburn/Frank Callaghan - Saskatoon


BOB BRADBURN/FRANK CALLAGHAN
"Saskatoon" b/w "Saskatoon"
1960
(No Label)

Here’s what I think is the earliest record in my Saskatchewan collection. Two short civic pride anthems recorded by a pair of CFQC radio announcers.


Bob Bradburn’s “Saskatoon” is little more than a chorus (with requisite Bessborough and “City of Bridges” mentions), all swelling organ anchored by his stately voice.

Side 2 is a brighter affair, pitting 2nd Avenue and CFQC against the world, set against barroom piano and with a guitar way down in the mix. I prefer Frank Callaghan’s “Saskatoon” for his voice and turn of phrase, but the songs work well together: A two-sided 1960 Saskatoon coin.