April 2, 2026
SUMMER OF LIGHT
Following the dissolution of Box Of Toys, singer Brian Atherton continued under the name The Light, effectively as a solo project. The 1985 single ‘Contrasting Strangers’ stands as a strong example of mid-80s synth-pop, combining a distinctive synth-oboe lead with polished, melodic production that reflects the evolution of the New Romantic sound into a more atmospheric, radio-friendly style. Positioned for the growing MTV audience of the time, the track sits comfortably alongside contemporaries such as Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and The Cure, and has been featured in a new US comedy film Summer Of 69, which premieres on Hulu in early May.