New Hearts On Fire and First Light Albums To Be Released via Pride & Joy Music on July 25th
New Hearts On Fire and First Light Albums To Be Released via Pride & Joy Music on July 25th
FIRST LIGHT
First Light is the melodic rock band of lifelong friends Dave Hardman (guitar) and Carl Sharples (bass)—two musicians bound by decades of friendship and a passion for the golden era of AOR. What began as lockdown collaboration in 2020 has become a dynamic musical force, rooted in the spirit of classic bands like FM, Journey, Foreigner, and Giant, yet fully charged with fresh energy and modern production.
Despite now living in different countries—Dave in Spain and Carl in the UK—the duo has forged a creative partnership through remote collaboration, with Dave shaping the music and Carl penning lyrics and melodies. Together, they deliver a sound that is both nostalgic and invigorating, combining lush harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and the unmistakable spirit of British melodic rock.
To bring their vision to life, they assembled an outstanding lineup. Warren Passaro, a powerful and soulful vocalist from New York City, brings transatlantic fire and finesse. On drums, long-time friend Andy Jakeman provides thunderous, driving energy. with the crown jewel of fanboy dreams coming when Didge Digital, legendary keyboardist of British AOR giants FM, joined the band—adding his trademark melodic textures and deepening the band’s sonic identity.
After receiving international airplay and glowing praise for their 2023 Gravity mini-album—including a Classic Rock Magazine review (a rare feat for an unsigned band), a 90% score from melodicrock.com, and Album of the Month in AOR Underground—First Light knew they had to raise the bar.
Produced by Pete Newdeck (Vega) and mastered by Harry Hess (Harem Scarem), Elemental is a powerful, emotionally charged collection of 11 brand new songs—each one crafted with precision, passion, and purpose. Created virtually, yet bursting with chemistry, the album captures the clarity, depth, and organic spirit that inspired its title.
Elemental is not just an album—it’s a statement.
From the anthemic drive of Mesmerising, the cinematic sweep of Shooting for the Stars, to the raw emotion of Forever Young and the defiant hook of Damned If You Do, every track delivers unique standout moments.
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HEARTS ON FIRE
HEARTS ON FIRESeven years after HEARTS ON FIRE’s debut album titled Call Of Destiny (2018) was released, the group returns with powerful music and a new voice! This time featuring none other than renowned singer Mark Boals on vocals!
Their second album Signs & Wonders features a solid line-up consisting of Jean Funes (guitars, Silent Tiger), Joel Mejía (drums, Silent Tiger) and keyboardist Eric Ragno (Khymera, The Babys) that brings 11 songs to life, delivered with more intensity and punch, but still keeping that melodic magic present. Dennis Ward (Khymera, Magnum), who also mixed and mastered the release, appears as guest on bass guitar.
The sound of the band has evolved by adding more personality and depth to the music – with definitely more edges than the debut album but keeping that distinctive melodic sound. Signs & Wonders features lyrics with reflective themes and topics of relevance in the world right now, and the songs are full of inspired melodies and hooks that will leave you wanting more.
Hearts On Fire is: Mark Boals (Lead and Background Vocals), Jean Funes (Guitars), Joel Mejia (Drums), Eric Ragno (Keyboards)
Additional Musician: Dennis Ward (Bass)
Produced by Jean Funes
Mixed and mastered by Dennis Ward
Executive producers: Jean Funes and Joel Mejia
