After the Fire - Signs of Change. 1978 England

I never believed them. Never believed who? The catalog dealers 25-30 years ago. They were the first to proclaim that After the Fire's debut album was progressive rock. In those days, sellers seemed desperate to make everything either psychedelic or progressive, when oftentimes they were neither. Not even close. So the group who put out 'Der Kommissar' were really a prog outfit? The track that pretty much defines the early 80s MTV sound? Oh stop.

They were a prog band. It's true. In fact, after hearing Signs of Change, I have no idea how they got from here to there. There seems to be no path forward - no "signs of change". On this debut, the only music that After the Fire was predicting was the rise of neo prog. Signs of Change is very much patterned after Hackett-era Genesis. It's not at that level, but the attempt is similar to some of the Continental European bands operating in this space during the same time, such as Saga (Netherlands), Neuschwanstein, and Ivory. Long tracks, complex compositions, full bodied instrumentation. Organ is the dominant instrument. What says the 80s like the Hammond organ, eh? About the only track that even hints After the Fire might be forward looking is 'Back to the Light'. If you stretch your ears behind your head, maybe. Easy recommendation for traditional progressive rock fans. And that's about it.

Ownership: CD: 2011 Angel Air. Recent online acquisition. Jewel case with detailed liner notes covering the history of the band up to this album. Also features 4 lengthy - and very good - bonus tracks. 3 are unique. Overall a superb presentation.