A Gift from a Flower to a Garden cover

A Gift from a Flower to a Garden

Donovan

Album 1967

About this album

Sound: "A whimsical blend of folk melodies and psychedelic textures that evoke a dreamlike pastoral landscape."

Where they were

Released on April 16, 1967, 'A Gift from a Flower to a Garden' was Donovan's fourth studio album, following the commercial success of 'Sunshine Superman'. This album marked his transition into more elaborate and experimental soundscapes, showcasing his artistic growth during the evolving psychedelic era.

Why it matters

The album is significant for its ambitious concept and orchestration, believed to influence the burgeoning psychedelic movement. Its innovative approach to folk music earned positive reviews and established Donovan as a key figure in this genre, contributing to the cultural zeitgeist of the late 1960s.

Essential tracks

  • "Wear Your Love Like Heaven" — This opening track captures the essence of the album with its uplifting melody and romantic imagery, setting a serene tone.
  • "Sun" — A standout for its vibrant instrumentation and lyrical celebration of nature, 'Sun' encapsulates the album's pastoral theme.
  • "The Enchanted Gypsy" — 'The Enchanted Gypsy' showcases Donovan's storytelling prowess and features intricate acoustic arrangements that reflect his folk roots.

Release Date

April 16, 1967

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Wear Your Love Like Heaven 2:28
  2. 2 Mad John’s Escape 2:20
  3. 3 Skip‐a‐Long Sam 2:26
  4. 4 Sun 3:17
  5. 5 There Was a Time 2:03
  6. 6 Oh Gosh 1:48
  7. 7 Little Boy in Corduroy 2:34
  8. 8 Under the Greenwood Tree 1:58
  9. 9 The Land of Doesn’t Have to Be 2:30
  10. 10 Someone’s Singing 3:07
  11. 11 Song of the Naturalist’s Wife 2:53
  12. 12 The Enchanted Gypsy 3:20
  13. 13 Voyage Into The Golden Screen 3:16
  14. 14 Isle of Islay 2:25
  15. 15 The Mandolin Man and His Secret 3:30
  16. 16 Lay of the Last Tinker 1:51
  17. 17 The Tinker and the Crab 2:55
  18. 18 Widow With Shawl (A Portrait) 3:03
  19. 19 The Lullaby of Spring 3:28
  20. 20 The Magpie 1:31
  21. 21 Starfish‐on‐the‐Toast 2:47
  22. 22 Epistle to Derroll 5:44