First Light – Elemental 2025

25 July 2025 First Light is the melodic rock band of lifelong friends Dave Hardman (guitar) and Carl Sharples (bass)—two musicians bound by decades of friendship and a passion for the golden era of AOR. What began as lockdown collaboration in 2020 has become a dynamic musical force, rooted in the spirit of classic bands like FM, Journey, Foreigner, and Giant, yet fully charged with fresh energy and modern production.

Despite now living in different countries—Dave in Spain and Carl in the UK—the duo has forged a creative partnership through remote collaboration, with Dave shaping the music and Carl penning lyrics and melodies. Together, they deliver a sound that is both nostalgic and invigorating, combining lush harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and the unmistakable spirit of British melodic rock.

To bring their vision to life, they assembled an outstanding lineup. Warren Passaro, a powerful and soulful vocalist from New York City, brings transatlantic fire and finesse. On drums, long-time friend Andy Jakeman provides thunderous, driving energy. with the crown jewel of fanboy dreams coming when Didge Digital, legendary keyboardist of British AOR giants FM, joined the band—adding his trademark melodic textures and deepening the band’s sonic identity.

After receiving international airplay and glowing praise for their 2023 Gravity mini-album—including a Classic Rock Magazine review (a rare feat for an unsigned band), a 90% score from melodicrock.com, and Album of the Month in AOR Underground—First Light knew they had to raise the bar.

Produced by Pete Newdeck (Vega) and mastered by Harry Hess (Harem Scarem), Elemental is a powerful, emotionally charged collection of 11 brand new songs—each one crafted with precision, passion, and purpose. Created virtually, yet bursting with chemistry, the album captures the clarity, depth, and organic spirit that inspired its title.
Elemental is not just an album—it’s a statement.
From the anthemic drive of “Mesmerising”, the cinematic sweep of “Shooting for the Stars”, to the raw emotion of “Forever Young” and the defiant hook of “Damned If You Do”, every track delivers unique standout moments.

01_Closer 5:06 MP3
02_Damned If You Do Damned If You Don’t 4:45 MP3
03_Forever Young 4:54 MP3
04_Mayday 5:15 MP3
05_Leave A Light On 4:52 MP3
06_Mesmerising 5:15 MP3
07_Run 4:29 MP3
08_Caught Up In You 3:53 MP3
09_Shooting For The Stars 4:55 MP3
10_Untouchable 5:01 MP3
11_The Prize 5:50 MP3