The Fantasy Band

 

Kirkland Lake has been home to many musicians over the years.  Fantasy was a band in KL that was prominent on the local scene during the 70's - a very interesting musical era, when British bands were influencing many sounds.  

The British sound clearly had a major impact on the direction that Fantasy became best known for.   It all began with a friendship among quite the diverse group of lads.   Back in 1970, Bob Brown returned to Kirkland Lake (after being on the road with his wife Sandy of a few years) to rest and look at what the future opportunities might be available to them in Sandra's hometown.

At that time Bob was full-time musician originating from Scotland and working the bar circuit in Ontario, making his way to fame and fortune in Canada.   But eventually the 'road, and ongoing touring had taken its toll.   After a few months of reflection, a new job at the Kirkland Lake District Hospital, Bob was actually ready to settle down and sell some of the band equipment that was collected over his touring years.

An advertisement in the Northern Daily News was soon answered by members of Sappno (a group of young musicians practicing and forming a band in Kirkland Lake).   As the story goes, Bob went out to Dave Smith's house in King Kirkland to deliver the equipment.   While he was setting the stuff up, he noticed that they were trying to sing the lyrics to a Beatles song called 'Oh Darling'.   Bob's musical ear quickly realized that although Dave was respectfully attempting to sing the song, he felt that it needed a little tweaking!   So not being able to resist an opportunity to sing his beloved Beatles tunes, Bob politely asked for the mike and the rest shall we say, was history!   Bob joined the band Sappno.   Members included Dave Smith (drums)- Mark Smith (bass)- Terry Webber (guitar)- and Rick Peters (keyboards).   They played in the KL scene for four years with this line-up.   They also recorded singles entitled 'Vacation' and 'Sometimes' and were clearly a local musical hit.   Years went by and personal changes happened as folks moved on to pursue other interests in life.