Review: Blue Tears – Live In The UK

Pride & Joy Music – May 15^th 2026

Reviewer – Chris O’Connor

Few melodic hard rock aficionados will have forgotten the impact of Blue Tears’ self-titled 1990 debut album. Blending the hook-laden energy of Bon Jovi with the polished melodic power of Def Leppard and the joyous abandon of Danger Danger, the band seemed destined for far greater recognition than fate ultimately allowed. Comprised of Gregg Fulkerson (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards), Bryan Hall (guitar, vocals), Michael Spears (bass, vocals), and Charlie Lauderdale (drums), Blue Tears created music that has remained deeply cherished by melodic rock fans ever since—and now this remarkable performance allows listeners to relive that magic all over again.

In 2005, Blue Tears were invited to appear at only the second edition of the legendary Firefest festival, delivering what would prove to be their one and only fully electric performance in Europe. Frontman Gregg Fulkerson and company produced a passionate, high-energy set that perfectly captured both the excitement and emotional significance of the occasion. Alongside beloved Blue Tears favourites, the set also included two tracks from Gregg’s side project Attraction 65, including the ultra-rare Japanese-only bonus cut ‘One Step Over The Line’—a genuine treasure for long-time fans and collectors alike.

What makes this recording especially compelling is its honesty. This is not a heavily polished live album painstakingly reconstructed in the studio; rather, it captures the band exactly as they were on the night—raw, spirited, and fuelled entirely by adrenaline and emotion. Any imperfections only enhance the atmosphere, while the audience’s enthusiasm and the band’s heartfelt delivery combine to create a live document that feels authentic, immediate, and wonderfully nostalgic. More than anything, it serves as a reminder of just how much potential Blue Tears possessed, and why they continue to command such reverence within melodic rock circles.

Despite running to only nine songs, the performance leaves an enormous impact. Even now, listening back sends goosebumps racing down the spine. The energy levels are absolutely ferocious, with the band attacking every song with unrestrained joy and conviction. Highlights abound, particularly ‘Rock You To Heaven’, ‘Take This Heart’, ‘Thunder In The Night’, and the utterly timeless ‘Rockin’ With The Radio’—still one of the great melodic rock songs of its era. There is an undeniable bittersweet quality to the experience too; knowing Gregg Fulkerson’s tragic fate only adds further emotional weight to a performance already overflowing with heart and passion.

For fans of AOR and melodic rock, this release is nothing short of essential. It captures a singular moment in time—a band giving everything they had in front of an adoring audience—and preserves the spirit of Gregg Fulkerson in the most fitting way possible. Huge credit must also go to Bruce Mee and Pride & Joy Music for ensuring this electrifying performance finally receives the release it so richly deserves.

Track List:

1. Rock You To Heaven
2. Rise Above
3. Take This Heart
4. Thunder In The Night
5. Let It Rain
6. Blue Tears
7. Rockin’ With The Radio
8. One Step Over The Line
9. Live It Up

Line-up:

Gregg Fulkerson (Lead vocals, guitar, keyboards)
Bryan Hall (Guitar, vocals)
Michael Spears (Bass, vocals)
Charlie Lauderdale (Drums)