"Simply Red - A New Flame" is the third studio album by the British soul and pop band Simply Red, released in 1989. It marked a significant shift in the band's sound, incorporating more soul and R&B influences compared to their previous albums.
The album features a mix of upbeat pop songs and soulful ballads, with frontman Mick Hucknall's distinctive vocals at the forefront. Tracks like "It's Only Love," "If You Don't Know Me by Now," and "A New Flame" showcase the band's polished production and Hucknall's emotive delivery, drawing comparisons to classic soul artists like Otis Redding and Marvin Gaye.
Lyrically, "A New Flame" explores themes of love, longing, and personal growth, with Hucknall's introspective lyrics reflecting his own experiences and emotions. The album's title track, in particular, expresses the idea of finding renewal and passion in a new relationship.
Upon its release, "A New Flame" received positive reviews from critics and became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the album charts in several countries. The album's lead single, a cover of the Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes song "If You Don't Know Me by Now," became one of Simply Red's biggest hits and remains a staple of their live performances.
Overall, "A New Flame" is regarded as one of Simply Red's most successful and influential albums, helping to solidify their status as one of the leading bands of the late 1980s and early 1990s. It remains a favorite among fans of soul and pop music, known for its timeless melodies, lush production, and Hucknall's soulful vocals.
