Into the Light

by Mike DeGagneInto the Light contains Chris de Burgh's highest-charting single with the ballroom elegance of "Lady in Red," peaking at number three in 1987 and remaining on the Billboard charts for 14 weeks. This song, with it's sweeping romantic tempo and classy feel, is reminiscent of Eric Clapton's "Wonderful Tonight" as de Burgh's sincere flattery for his dame is exquisitely sung. Even his voice seems more pronounced, as it resonates and then lowers into a softer tone. Besides the hit single, much of the album remains lush and mellow in the style of de Burgh's usual ballads. On songs like "Last Night" and "Spirit of Man," his seriousness and honesty break through to showcase his passion for his work. Although the music on the album is slow paced, this doesn't take away from de Burgh's appealing blend of dignified lyrics and late-night sound. The flyaway chorus in "Saying Goodbye to It All" makes this song the second best on the album. Here, de Burgh sparks some energy with a slightly quicker stride than most of the album's material. Even "Fire in the Water" contains an attractive hitch of its own kind. While Into the Light may not be his best work, its lavish, posh feel sets it apart from much of his other slower recordings.