Since Dan Reed Network disbanded in the early 90’s Dan has kept a decidedly low profile until last year when the band re-united for one show only. To be honest I didn’t know the guy was active until I bumped into this release and dug some details about his recent whereabouts. He ran a blues and rock nightclub, did some construction work, went to stay at a monastery in Tibet and then visited Delhi and Jerusalem.

Saying all that means that this (second solo album) is not a Dan Reed Network record so I suggest that you not expect a funk pop rock record early 90’s style. Nope. “Signal Fire” is a semi-acoustic, voice-centered AOR coming from a man who clearly knows his goals in life, a man who lives in peace with himself. This is a man who lives in Paris and delivers house concerts and that says a lot, doesn’t it. 

“Signal Fire” is a philosophical but lightweight and positive album. It’s full of dreamy (“Beloved”) but determined (“Only Love”) songs built on rock-solid foundations without being too much rock and too much roll. The years of experience show through- this sounds like the work of an established hand rather than a budding novice.

Some may complain that the songs are too polished and lack any sort of spark, almost sounding like melodic sweeteners finessed by a professional songwriter. Let me tell you something, “Signal Fire” would sound as a sweetener only to some youngster’s ears, who doesn’t know his head from his ass. These 13 songs are soft and mellow, yes, but they are enigmatic and soul melting too. They are suited for experienced grown-ups I suppose so this album suits me perfectly.