1ST EDITION ON CD
Rediscover a hidden gem of melodic rock from the 80s!
Formed in the mid-1980s, Blue Yonder brought together two exceptional musicians: singer, songwriter, and keyboardist Sandy Stewart and multi-instrumentalist David Munday. Together, they created a refined universe blending melodic pop, soft rock, and AOR, driven by Stewart's expressive voice and elegantly crafted arrangements. Released in 1987 on Atlantic Records, the duo's only album, Blue Yonder, benefits from a prestigious production by John Brand, with the participation of the legendary Arif Mardin. Long kept a well-guarded secret, this album is now considered a true gem by fans of AOR and sophisticated pop-rock from the 80s. Before Blue Yonder, Sandy Stewart had already made a name for herself through her collaboration with Stevie Nicks on the album The Wild Heart, co-writing the tracks "If Anyone Falls" and "Nightbird." Her talent as a songwriter and her unique timbre find their full expression here. The album contains nine original compositions, including the remarkable singles "Windsong" and "House Of Love." "Windsong," a true centerpiece of the record, showcases Stewart's impressive vocal range and remains the group's most emblematic track. "House Of Love" will also experience a second life thanks to its interpretation by Maria Vidal.
This work also features many renowned musicians, including Kip Winger, Chuck Sabo, David Ruffy, Philippe Saisse, and Steve Hogarth (Marillion), while Arif Mardin's brass arrangements add an extra depth to the whole. Upon its release, the specialized press particularly praised Sandy Stewart's vocal performances, while radio programmers identified "Windsong" as a particularly promising track. Although the album did not achieve major commercial success, its reputation has continued to grow over the years. Nearly forty years after its original release, Blue Yonder remains a remarkable testament to the golden age of melodic rock and AOR, combining emotion, lyrical finesse, and lush production. An essential rediscovery for all fans of West Coast, AOR, and 80s pop-rock. Note: We regret that Warner Music USA did not authorize the inclusion of the only existing bonus track, "Only For A Moment," the B-side of the single "House Of Love," in this first CD edition.