On this day June 30, 1981, Canadian rock band Red Rider released their second studio album As Far as Siam. Featuring lead vocalist Tom Cochrane, the album built on the band’s growing reputation for thoughtful lyrics and powerful instrumentation.
As Far as Siam reached number 65 on the US Billboard charts and included the breakout track Lunatic Fringe, which became a defining anthem for the band. The song received heavy airplay on rock radio and later appeared in films and television, helping it gain lasting recognition beyond the album’s modest chart placement.
The record blended classic rock with subtle new wave influences, delivering a moody and atmospheric sound that set Red Rider apart from many of their peers during the early 1980s.
80s insight: As Far as Siam gave Red Rider their signature hit and helped them cross over from Canadian radio to international audiences. It showed that the 1980s rock scene had room for introspection as well as energy.
As Far as Siam reached number 65 on the US Billboard charts and included the breakout track Lunatic Fringe, which became a defining anthem for the band. The song received heavy airplay on rock radio and later appeared in films and television, helping it gain lasting recognition beyond the album’s modest chart placement.
The record blended classic rock with subtle new wave influences, delivering a moody and atmospheric sound that set Red Rider apart from many of their peers during the early 1980s.
80s insight: As Far as Siam gave Red Rider their signature hit and helped them cross over from Canadian radio to international audiences. It showed that the 1980s rock scene had room for introspection as well as energy.
