After The Fire

This band is not included in the Archives. Maybe rightly so. They are best known for their early 80's pop / punk style, and for songs like their cover version of Der Kommissar etc.

However, late in the 70s they recorded their debut album, called "Signs Of Change" which is definitely right out of the symphonic prog catalogue. I discovered this album whilst at University in the mid 80s, found (somewhat rare) vinyl version of it in Rockpile Records in Dundee, and thereafter survived on a 'cassette recorded' version for over 20 years.

I was delighted to discover that the band were re-issuing the album on CD a couple of years ago, and snapped it up.

The CD version also contains 4 additional bonus tracks. The main 6 tracks on the original EP are:

Dance of the Marionette 7:03
Back to the Light 4:31
Now That I've Found 8:13
Signs Of Change 8:07
Jigs 2:59
Pilgrim 11:22

With the exception of Jigs, which must be considered a 'filler' all the tracks are characterised by lavish 'old style' hammond keyboards, excellent guitar work, and time changes galore. This music is absolutely unlike anything else you would ever hear from this band. Highlights are 'Dance of the Marionette', 'Now That I've Found' and the epic 'Pilgrim'.

One drawback I'll point out is that the production / sound quality, even on the CD version is not up to modern day standards. Do yourself a favour, and give this album a try....and please.....someone get them added to the Archives for this album alone!