Synthpop classic: "Working with Fire and Steel" China Crisis (1983)

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“Working with Fire and Steel” cannot even be labeled a one hit wonder in the US as the single went uncharted. The only showing was dance club chart #27. Even in the UK the song only reached #48. China Crisis was formed near Liverpool in 1979 by Gary Daly (vocals, keyboards) and Eddie Lundon (guitar). Their time in the spotlight was brief generating a handful of minor UK hits. Written by Daly and Lundon, the song is from the album “Working with Fire and Steel: Possible Pop Songs Volume Two.” It is a shame “Working with Fire and Steel” was not more successful because the song sounds great with its driving beat. There was lesser synthpop achieving greater success at the time. The song did receive alternative radio play in the US. China Crisis has had the last laugh because “Working with Fire and Steel” is now a new wave classic staple of 80s nostalgia receiving radio play. Amazingly, China Crisis with Daly and Lundon is still together to this day.