The second solo album by former Fairport Convention singer was largely ignored upon its release but has gone on to be revered as a cult classic even turning up in the hallowed pages of Rolling Stone among their greatest albums of all time lists - in like a rocket at No. 479!
Though it was recorded in a matter of days it sat on a shelf waiting to be released for nearly eight-months while the record company decided what to do with it. Rumour has it this was partly to do with the early '70s oil shortages which put a premium on the cost of producing vinyl.
While Thompson's first album was a purely solo affair, this was the first to feature his then new wife, formerly Linda Peters, herself already well known on the UK folk scene. I WANT TO SEE THE BRIGHT LIGHTS TONIGHT runs the full gamut from rock through to twee English folk but is mostly dark and brooding in tone. The tracks are a mixture of duets, and solo pieces with either Thompson taking the vocals.
Linda's sad vocals are mesmerising on the mellow 'Down Where the Drunkards Roll' and the 'Has He Got A Friend For Me', and especially haunting on acrobatically themed 'The Great Valerio' when set to Richard's sparse acoustic guitar picking. It makes a dramatic and stunning climax to the album.
Other highlights are the singalong chorus of opening track 'When I Get To The Border' and the track 'I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight' where a brass section compliment Linda's vocals.
Sure, there are some tracks that haven't aged terribly well. 'We Sing Hallelujah' has a "hey nonny nonny" barn dance vibe to it. Reminds me of my compulsory country dancing lessons at my West Country primary school. Very 'ye olde English'.
Generally though it's an impressive album and among the very best of British folk rock.
WHEN I GET TO THE BORDER
THE GREAT VALERIO
I WANT TO SEE THE BRIGHT LIGHTS TONIGHT
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