Above & Beyond and Richard Bedford have once again joined forces to deliver a heartfelt vocal trance anthem with their latest collaboration, Start A Fire. Clocking in at a smooth 128 BPM and released on the legendary Anjunabeats label, this track serves as a standout single from the eagerly awaited fifth Above & Beyond album, Bigger Than All Of Us.
Above & Beyond — the iconic British trance trio consisting of Jono Grant, Paavo Siljamäki, and Tony McGuinness — have been shaping the sound of modern electronic music for over 25 years. Renowned for their emotive melodies, immersive productions, and fan-centric approach, they have become synonymous with vocal trance anthems that resonate deeply with their global audience.
Richard Bedford’s distinctive, soulful voice has been a cornerstone of many Above & Beyond classics, including the revered Sun & Moon, Thing Called Love, and Northern Soul. His expressive vocal delivery perfectly complements the group’s melodic depth, making him a natural fit for their emotionally charged soundscapes.
Start A Fire is a beautiful product of “reconnection,” a key theme of Bigger Than All Of Us. The track originated from an instrumental demo in Paavo’s archives, estimated to be seven or eight years old. Tony McGuinness, who always admired the piece, finally penned the lyrics inspired by a poetic line he had kept for years: “There’s enough of you in me to start a fire.”
Tony’s lyrical vision was to create a conversational love song reminiscent of Dire Straits’ storytelling style. The verses came together spontaneously at The Gorge, turning the demo into a fully fleshed-out anthem. Paavo expresses how Tony’s fresh input reignited his passion for the track, which only grew stronger once Richard Bedford’s vocals brought it to life. As Paavo puts it, “It’s that thing where it’s the power of a team.”
The track opens with lush melodic layers and a deep instrumental foundation before Bedford’s emotionally charged vocals take center stage. His heartfelt delivery intertwines seamlessly with Above & Beyond’s signature uplifting synths and driving rhythm, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy that’s rare in electronic music.
Having debuted at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival this past April, Start A Fire marked a defining moment in the album’s campaign and a highlight of Above & Beyond’s live performances this year.
Start A Fire is a masterclass in vocal trance craftsmanship, blending nostalgia, heartfelt emotion, and the refined production skills of one of the genre’s most beloved acts. This track not only satisfies long-time fans but also reinforces Above & Beyond’s continued relevance and artistry in the electronic music landscape.
⭐️ Rating: 10/10
🎧 Perfect For
- Late-night drives or intimate moments where lyrics and melody stir deep emotions
- Fans of classic Above & Beyond vocal trance anthems
- Festival and live show highlights that call for connection and communal energy
- Anyone looking for uplifting, melodic trance with a timeless feel
With Start A Fire, Above & Beyond and Richard Bedford prove once again why their partnership remains one of trance music’s most powerful and enduring. The track’s journey from a forgotten demo to a shining single embodies the spirit of Bigger Than All Of Us: reconnecting, reigniting, and starting something truly unforgettable.
Artist: Above & Beyond, Richard Bedford
Track: Start A Fire
Label: Anjunabeats
Release Date: May 30th, 2025
Get your copy here: https://aboveandbeyond.ffm.to/startafire.oyd
Connect with Above & Beyond:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboveandbeyond
X: https://www.twitter.com/aboveandbeyond
Connect with Richard Bedford:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardBedfordMusic
X: https://www.twitter.com/RichardBedford
Connect with Anjunabeats:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anjunabeats
X: https://www.twitter.com/anjunabeats
Take a listen to Above & Beyond feat. Richard Bedford – Start A Fire here:
