Sweet – Burn On The Flame: A Fiery Gem from 1974
When Sweet released Burn On The Flame in 1974, it slipped into the UK Singles Chart as the B-side to their hit The Six Teens, which peaked at No. 9. Though it didn’t chart independently, this track from the Sweet Fanny Adams album has since earned its place as a standout in the band’s catalog. For those of us who’ve lived through the shifting tides of music, Burn On The Flame is a vibrant reminder of the ‘70s—a time when glam rock strutted its stuff and Sweet was finding its footing beyond the bubblegum pop that first made them famous.
Listen closely, and you’ll hear Sweet firing on all cylinders. The song bursts out with a driving guitar riff from Andy Scott, bold and unapologetic, setting the stage for Brian Connolly’s voice to ignite the melody. “Every time I look into your eyes, you make me feel alright” isn’t just a lyric—it’s a spark that catches, fueled by the band’s tight harmonies and Mick Tucker’s relentless drums. For older fans, it’s the kind of tune that might’ve crackled through a pub jukebox or spun on a well-worn LP, filling the room with its infectious energy. Burn On The Flame captures Sweet in transition—shedding their earlier sugary sound for something fiercer, a raw edge that hinted at the heavier rock they’d soon embrace with tracks like Fox On The Run.
This song’s charm lies in its simplicity and swagger. It’s not overly polished—there’s a roughness to it, a sense of four mates in a studio just letting loose. Steve Priest’s bass rumbles underneath like a steady heartbeat, while the gang vocals in the chorus give it that anthemic lift we loved back then. For those who remember 1974, it’s a taste of glam’s golden moment—big hair, bigger riffs, and a carefree vibe that defined a generation. Sweet wasn’t just riding the wave; they were stoking the fire, and Burn On The Flame feels like a victory lap for a band hitting its stride.
Even today, it’s got a kick that doesn’t fade. It’s not as famous as some of their chart-toppers, but that’s part of its appeal—a hidden treasure for those who dig a little deeper. So, if you’ve got a quiet evening ahead, pour yourself a drink, cue up Burn On The Flame, and let Sweet take you back to a time when rock was loud, proud, and burned bright.