There are singer/songwriters and then there is Bruce Cockburn; an artist that, in my opinion, has never truly received the recognition he deserved. Yes, he has been incredibly successful throughout his career, but as you listen to Stealing Fire I’ve no doubt you’ll be left speechless for not only is it one of the best albums from 1984, but it’s a hidden gem of the era.
Part of the album’s appeal is most certainly linked to the inclusion of musical influences from around the world as these elements merge perfectly with Cockburn’s overall style. Yes, Cockburn’s folk stylings remain, as do the classic rock and pop elements, but it’s in the intertwining of these elements where the album comes into its own for there isn’t a dull song to be heard. It’s also expertly suited to the era with plenty of 80s influences; none of which, however, detract from the album's eclectic style.
As part of the world influence, Stealing Fire’s lyrics are primarily related to a world in turmoil, reflecting on political unrest, human rights, and the transformative power of love and hope. This poignant lyricism will undoubtedly appeal to those who dissect music for its literal meaning, but the music, itself, is so strong that many of us will simply sit back, relax, and appreciate Cockburn’s vocal for its tonal qualities and sensational delivery.
The unconventional album artwork is compelling, so much so that I look forward to attaining a physical release, particularly on vinyl. Thankfully, Red Eye Records has the most recent LP reissues available to order. However, what’s limiting my interest in picking up a copy is in relation to just how well recorded, mixed, and mastered the Lossless Apple Music stream is. Yes, it is the CD counterpart to the Deluxe Edition from 2003, but Peter Moore did such an incredible remastering job that I feel no need to seek out a physical release, particularly on vinyl, as the digital stream is immersive, spacious, and tonally warm. It truly is a pleasure to listen to.
As it pertains to the bonus tracks that were issued on the Deluxe Edition; they’re lovely. However, here at Subjective Sounds, we try to focus on the album’s original sequencing, hence you’ll note a shared playlist below containing the album’s original nine tracks. If you’d like to hear Yanqui Go Home and Call It The Sundance, both songs are available, on Apple Music, by clicking here.
Lovers In A Dangerous Time is an ideal opener for this 80s-era release. It also happens to be one of Cockburn’s most memorable tunes and performed well on the charts when released as a single. With its driving beat, jangly guitars, and infectious melody, Lovers In A Dangerous Time will appeal to just about anyone who has a penchant for 80s-styled recordings.
Maybe The Poet continues the wondrous musical exploration with its upbeat tempo. Cockburn’s sharp, almost spoken-word delivery, is highly compelling, but it’s the musical bed as well as the choral backing that appeals most to this music lover.
Sahara Gold is an incredible tune; a true hidden gem. Cockburn’s evocative guitar work shines through, creating a soundscape that is both beautiful and slightly unsettling. It is, however, the haunting melody that amplifies the senses. Cockburn’s vocal styling is nothing short of exceptionally compelling thereby resulting in one of Cockburn’s all-time greatest recordings.
Making Contact picks up the tone to deliver a song that’s a little lighter than Sahara Gold. While it could be suggested that there’s a slight jolt to the senses between the two songs, it isn’t enough to break the flow of the album. Either way, Making Contact, with its laid-back groove and reggae-influenced rhythm is a thoroughly enjoyable tune that will have you toe-tapping and head-bopping throughout.
Peggy's Kitchen Wall is one of the more narrative-driven tracks on the album. It’s musically beautiful with an almost jaunty rhythm that borrows slightly from reggae music, the combination of which results in an interesting contrast to the song’s dark subject matter.
To Raise The Morning Star will have you turning the volume up, for the rhythmic vibe and layered musically will captivate your soul with its ethereal arrangement of chiming guitars and gentle percussion.
Nicaragua is a simply stunning tune. While I don’t always listen to music for literal intent, Nicaragua is one of the songs on the record that’s difficult to ignore for it’s one of the album’s most political. If nothing else, Nicaragua is Cockburn at his most poetic.
If I Had A Rocket Launcher is another highlight from Cockburn’s career, and is one of his most controversial songs. Depending on your perspective, different interpretations can be assigned to the song’s lyrical meaning, but from a musical perspective, If I Had A Rocket Launcher is one of his greatest tunes with a guitar performance to rival that of Mark Knopfler.
Dust And Diesel closes out the album in a more reflective mood. The song’s musical arrangement takes a back seat, thereby allowing Cockburn’s vocals to shine through. If nothing else, as you listen to Dust And Diesel, you’ll feel compelled to play the album again for Stealing Fire is an album that can seldom be listened to once.
From start to finish, Stealing Fire is a remarkable singer/songwriter release that will appeal to just about any music lover. Bruce Cockburn’s ability to combine powerful messages with compelling music makes this album a timeless classic, as relevant today as it was when released in 1984. If you haven’t yet added this masterpiece to your own music library, what are you waiting for? Music doesn’t get much better than this and Cockburn is a true, underrated, musical legend.
