“You guys were AMAZING! A really rich and feel-good night. Thank you!” Joy Kruger. Victoria Folk Music Society, March 2023.
"Backyard Boulevard is a group of Vic West-based performers who put together a show that, to my ear, is tailor-made for Deep Cove Folk. You can expect shanty-like participation songs (e.g., “Dream Away”), stunning a capella tunes (e.g., “Sing for No Reason”), ballads about local events (e.g., “Ragged Mountain” based on a short-lived gold rush in Sooke) and beautiful songs based on local nature (e.g., “Shooting Stars and Blue-eyed Mary”)—and more, much more. According to band member Robert Anderson, we can look forward to “thoughtful lyrics, exciting band arrangements and singing-your-heart-out choruses!” Could we ask for anything better? Definitely a show to come out to." Deep Cove Folk, Sidney BC
A little history: Back in the spring of 2020, James Anstey (banjo) and Mark Johnson (bass) started jamming on their Vic West boulevard; they drew a crowd of neighbours, including Susan Ellenton (vocals & accordion) and Robert Anderson (vocals, guitar and bouzouki), long-time Victoria songwriters who, it turns out, lived just over the fence. Blair Mitchell (hand percussion) brings a fresh kick to Backyard Boulevard, whose members have headlined Calgary Folk Festival, performed with Grammy winners Joan Baez, Oscar Lopez and Alberto San-Martin, written Victoria's official song, cracked the top ten on Folk Alliance International charts, and toured festivals from Alaska to Newfoundland. Book us for your next event!
