Thursday, July 17, 2025

After the Fire – Bright Lights (Cherry Red)


 

After the Fire was a British rock band that managed to start out as a progressive group but ended up as a new wave group. The cool thing is that everything they did is extremely convincing and sincere. While listening to these albums, there is no indication of jumping ship because one style was more popular at the moment. You feel a natural progression taking place. It makes this set very sundry but extremely enjoyable, especially if you approach it with an open mind.

After the Fire existed from 1974 to 1982, and their musical essence reflects those times. You get the feel, skilled playing, and the changing spirit of music. In many ways no other group did that better than After the Fire. While the band never tasted first-rate success, there is no argument they were an amazing group with great ideas and superb execution.

What is striking about these albums is the musical diversity that jumps out of them and the proficiency with which it is carried out. One can’t help but be impressed by the natural talent of these musicians and how much they are enjoying themselves. There is a very positive vibe coming out of these records. Each one of them has its own personality. This band was able to tour with Electric Light Orchestra, Queen, and Van Halen, so there you have it.

“Bright Lights” combines everything After the Fire recorded. The 6-CD set includes the following records: “Signs of Change,” “Laser Love,” “80-F,” “Batteries Not Included,” and “AT2F.” Each album includes a plethora of bonus tracks, and if that wasn’t enough, there is a disc of early demos. Great booklet with photos and information directly from the surviving band members. This set captures the whole picture, the complete view from the hill, and more.

Mark Kadzielawa

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