Complete List of Firefall Albums And Discography presents one of our favorite bands in classic rock history. Firefall was formed in Boulder, Colorado, in 1974, bringing together an array of talented musicians with strong resumes. Rick Roberts, who had been with the Flying Burrito Brothers, took on vocals and guitar, while Jock Bartley provided the lead guitar. Mark Andes played bass, David Muse contributed on keyboards, flute, and saxophone, and Michael Clarke, who had previously been a member of The Byrds, joined as the drummer. Their diverse backgrounds contributed to a unique blend of soft rock, country, and folk music that would soon capture America’s attention.
They scored a record deal with Atlantic Records in 1976, releasing their self-titled debut album the same year. The album was a commercial success, producing hits like “You Are the Woman” and “Livin’ Ain’t Livin’,” which climbed the charts and gained considerable radio airplay. This initial success created significant momentum for the band and helped establish them as a notable act in the American rock scene of the ’70s. What made Firefall stand out was their harmonious blend of instruments and genres, combining elements of rock, folk, and even a touch of country, which made their sound accessible to a broad audience.
Riding on the coattails of their debut album’s success, the band released “Luna Sea” in 1977. This album, too, was well-received and included the hit “Just Remember I Love You.” “Elan” followed in 1978, maintaining the band’s high standards both musically and commercially. These early albums solidified Firefall’s status as one of the era’s defining soft rock bands, replete with meaningful lyrics, intricate musical arrangements, and, of course, their signature vocal harmonies.
Despite their commercial successes, the late ’70s and early ’80s were not without challenges. “Undertow,” released in 1980, came after significant lineup changes that had begun to affect the band’s musical direction and internal dynamics. Michael Clarke left the band, and David Muse took over drumming duties. With this shift in personnel came a subtle shift in musical direction, but the band remained a staple in the soft rock scene.
The 1980s marked a wane in Firefall’s mainstream popularity. Albums like “Clouds Across the Sun” (1980) and “Break of Dawn” (1982) failed to match the commercial success of their earlier works. However, the band managed to keep a loyal fan base and continued to tour extensively. The 1990s saw further attempts to rejuvenate their career, with the release of the album “Messenger” in 1994. Although it didn’t achieve commercial success, it was critically well-received and marked a return to form in terms of musicianship and songwriting.
In the 2000s, the band seemed to come full circle, reuniting most of its original members and returning to their roots. They released “Colorado to Liverpool” in 2007, a tribute album to the Beatles that showcased their enduring love for great songwriting. This was followed by “Reunion Live” in 2009, capturing the magic of their live performances, and “Comet” in 2020, a return to original material that proved the band still had much to offer.
Firefall
“Firefall” was the eponymous debut album of the American soft rock band Firefall, released in 1976. The album was noted for its seamless blend of country-rock with soft rock elements, particularly on songs like “You Are the Woman.” It managed to hit the charts and became one of the standout soft rock albums of the ’70s. The lineup for this album included Rick Roberts (lead vocals, guitar), Larry Burnett (vocals, guitar), Jock Bartley (lead guitar), Mark Andes (bass), and Michael Clarke (drums). Produced by Jim Mason, the album was released under Atlantic Records. It was recorded at Criteria Studios, Miami, Florida, between January and March 1976.
CD Track Listings:
- “It Doesn’t Matter” – 3:31
- “Love Isn’t All” – 4:13
- “Livin’ Ain’t Livin'” – 3:49
- “No Way Out” – 4:05
- “Dolphin’s Lullaby” – 5:00
- “Cinderella” – 3:51
- “Sad Ol’ Love Song” – 4:45
- “You Are the Woman” – 2:47
- “Mexico” – 4:17
- “Do What You Want” – 4:00
Luna Sea
Released 1977
The sophomore album “Luna Sea” was released in 1977, marking a turning point in the band’s career. The album achieved gold status and featured the hit single “Just Remember I Love You,” which bolstered the band’s reputation. The album featured the same lineup as their debut release and was produced by Jim Mason. It was released under Atlantic Records. The album was recorded at Northstar Studios, Boulder, Colorado, in April and May 1977.
CD Track Listings:
- “So Long” – 5:20
- “Just Remember I Love You” – 3:16
- “Sold On You” – 3:38
- “Someday Soon” – 3:49
- “Just Think” – 4:08
- “Getaway” – 3:56
- “Only a Fool” – 4:08
- “Head on Home” – 4:56
- “Piece of Paper” – 2:03
- “Even Steven” – 4:11
Elan
Released 1978
This is our favorite Firefall album. At times the band sounded like Crosby, Stills & Nash on the album. The 1978 album “Elan” showcased Firefall’s maturing songwriting while maintaining their characteristic soft rock and country influences. It produced singles like “Strange Way” and “Goodbye, I Love You.” The lineup included new member David Muse (keyboards, flute, saxophone). It was produced by Kyle Lehning and released under Atlantic Records. The album was recorded at Caribou Ranch, Colorado, from June to August 1978.
CD Track Listings:
- “Strange Way” – 4:42
- “Sweet and Sour” – 3:30
- “Wrong Side of Town” – 2:48
- “Count Your Blessings” – 3:32
- “Get You Back” – 4:11
- “Anymore” – 4:38
- “Baby” – 4:43
- “Goodbye, I Love You” – 4:27
- “Sweet Ann” – 2:55
- “Winds of Change” – 4:40
Undertow
Released 1980
The 1980 album “Undertow” represented a stylistic departure for the band, with more emphasis on rock elements. Although not as commercially successful as its predecessors, the album remains a fan favorite. This album featured a new producer, Ron Albert, and Howard Albert. It was released under Atlantic Records. The album was recorded at Criteria Studios, Miami, Florida, between March and May 1980.
CD Track Listings:
- “Love That Got Away” – 3:40
- “Headed for a Fall” – 3:58
- “Only Time Will Tell” – 4:20
- “Laugh or Cry” – 3:59
- “Staying with It” – 3:57
- “Break of Dawn” – 4:00
- “Some Women” – 3:44
- “Rainbow” – 4:45
- “Say You Love Me” – 2:53
- “Under the Gun” – 4:40
Clouds Across the Sun
Released 1980
Continuing the band’s evolution, “Clouds Across the Sun” was released in 1980. Though not as commercially successful as their earlier albums, it still garnered positive reviews for its musical depth and maturity. The album had a similar lineup to “Undertow” and introduced new producer Kyle Lehning. It was released under Atlantic Records. The album was recorded at Northstar Studios, Boulder, Colorado, between September and November 1980.
CD Track Listings:
- “Be Who You Are” – 4:02
- “It’s Not Too Late” – 3:56
- “Hold On” – 4:43
- “Clouds Across the Sun” – 4:21
- “I Don’t Want to Hear It” – 3:48
- “Quite Like You” – 3:52
- “Take the Time” – 3:45
- “Speechless” – 4:08
- “Those Words” – 4:15
Break of Dawn</h2
Released 1982
“Break of Dawn” was released in 1982, and it marked a significant shift in Firefall’s musical direction, incorporating elements of pop and soft rock. The lineup had a few changes and was produced by Ron Albert and Howard Albert. Released under Atlantic Records, the album was recorded at Criteria Studios, Miami, Florida, between June and August 1982.
CD Track Listings:
- “Body and Soul” – 3:48
- “Love Ain’t What It Seems” – 4:12
- “More Than a Feeling” – 3:58
- “Hometown” – 4:09
- “Break of Dawn” – 3:44
- “Fall for You” – 4:01
- “Always” – 3:52
- “Pictures” – 4:03
- “In the Dead of Night” – 4:27
Mirror of the World
Released 1983
“Mirror of the World” was released in 1983, leaning heavily into the pop-rock genre. It received mixed reviews but showcased the band’s willingness to explore new musical territories. The album was produced by Eddy Offord and was released under Atlantic Records. It was recorded at Record Plant Studios, Sausalito, California, from March to May 1983.
CD Track Listings:
- “See the Light” – 3:56
- “Mirror of the World” – 4:01
- “Love That You Don’t Know” – 3:40
- “Believe in Me” – 4:09
- “New Frontier” – 3:52
- “Love Work Out” – 4:11
- “Dark Side” – 4:20
- “Sold on Love” – 3:35
- “Take Me Back” – 4:02
Messenger
Released 1994
A long hiatus later, Firefall came back with “Messenger” in 1994. This album was an attempt to modernize their sound while still keeping the essence of what made them Firefall. Produced by Jock Bartley, the album was released under Redstone Records.
CD Track Listings:
- “When the River Rises” – 4:10
- “Run Run Away” – 3:42
- “Love Like We Do” – 4:35
- “Always” – 4:20
- “Messenger” – 4:01
- “Eden to Canaan” – 4:15
- “Always a Chance” – 4:09
- “To Be a Child” – 3:55
- “Find a Way” – 4:18
- “If You Only Knew” – 4:00
Colorado to Liverpool
Released 2007
After a long hiatus, Firefall returned to the studio to record “Colorado to Liverpool,” a tribute album to the Beatles. The project featured the band’s renditions of classic Beatles tunes, adding their own signature touch to these timeless pieces. The album was independently produced and released. Recorded at various studios, including Colorado Sound Studios, from May to July 2007.
CD Track Listings:
- “Here Comes the Sun” – 3:02
- “Blackbird” – 2:48
- “Let It Be” – 4:03
- “Come Together” – 4:10
- “Hey Jude” – 7:04
- “Yesterday” – 2:05
- “Something” – 3:01
- “With a Little Help from My Friends” – 2:44
- “Penny Lane” – 3:00
- “All You Need is Love” – 3:46
Reunion Live
Released 2009
Capturing the magic of their live performances, “Reunion Live” was released in 2009. It was recorded during a special reunion concert and includes many of their hits performed live, making it a must-have for longtime fans. This live album was self-produced and released independently. Recorded at a live venue in Denver, Colorado, on September 23, 2009.
CD Track Listings:
- “Introduction” – 1:23
- “Strange Way” – 4:41
- “Cinderella” – 3:52
- “Mexico” – 4:33
- “Livin’ Ain’t Livin'” – 3:45
- “You Are the Woman” – 2:40
- “Just Remember I Love You” – 3:14
- “So Long” – 5:10
- “Goodbye, I Love You” – 4:25
Comet
Released 2020
After a significant break, “Comet” marked a return to original music. Released in 2020, it features a mix of new compositions and some old unreleased tracks, capturing the essence of Firefall while introducing new elements. Produced by the band members, the album was released under Sunset Blvd Records.
CD Track Listings:
- “Way Back When” – 4:12
- “A Real Fine Day” – 3:54
- “Hardest Chain” – 4:10
- “Nature’s Way” – 3:56
- “Younger” – 4:03
- “There She Is” – 3:48
- “Comet” – 4:01
- “Before I Met You” – 3:40
- “New Mexico” – 4:11
Friends & Family
Released 2022
The most recent offering, “Friends & Family,” includes collaborations with several artists who have been a part of Firefall’s journey. It showcases the band’s enduring ability to evolve without losing its core sound. The album was produced by Jock Bartley,
CD Track Listings:
- “Roll On” – 3:44
- “Time Passes” – 4:02
- “Home Again” – 3:55
- “Tumbleweed” – 4:12
- “Days Gone By” – 3:58
- “Clairvoyant” – 4:04
- “Family and Friends” – 4:21
- “Back to You” – 3:52
- “Grateful” – 4:08
- “In Her Eyes” – 3:45
Complete List of Firefall Albums And Discography article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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