Burning The Ground Exclusive
Today’s post is dedicated to the memory of Pete Byrne, lead vocalist and co-founder of Naked Eyes, who passed away peacefully in Los Angeles on September 14, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 74. News of his passing was announced this week.
For anyone who came of age during the early days of MTV, Byrne’s voice is instantly recognizable. Along with keyboardist Rob Fisher, he created some of the most memorable British synth-pop to cross the Atlantic during the early ’80s.
Naked Eyes formed in Bath, England, with Byrne and Fisher emerging from the earlier band Neon. As Naked Eyes, the pair signed with EMI and began working with producer Tony Mansfield. Their debut album, Burning Bridges, arrived in the UK in 1983 and was released in a slightly altered form in the United States simply as Naked Eyes.
Their breakthrough was a dramatic electronic remake of the Burt Bacharach and Hal David composition “Always Something There To Remind Me.”
The song already had a long history by the time Naked Eyes recorded it. Lou Johnson first released it in 1964, while Sandie Shaw took her version all the way to No. 1 in the UK later that year. Naked Eyes took the familiar song and rebuilt it for the synthesizer generation, surrounding Byrne’s vocal with programmed rhythms, keyboards, and Tony Mansfield’s polished production.
While Naked Eyes never became a major chart act in their native country, America was another story. “Always Something There To Remind Me” climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1983, followed by another major U.S. hit, “Promises, Promises,” which reached No. 11.
Ironically, the record that helped define the early-’80s British synth-pop sound was much less successful in Britain. After being re-promoted following its American success, “Always Something There To Remind Me” entered the UK Singles Chart in July 1983 and peaked at No. 59.
Today’s record is the UK 12″ on EMI, catalog number 12EMI 5334, backed with the non-LP track “Pit Stop.”
And this is where things get interesting.
The A-side is the “American Remix,” and my copy runs exactly 5:43. This is the John “Jellybean” Benitez remix, though the history of the various mixes has become surprisingly muddled over the years.
The original extended version of “Always Something There To Remind Me,” mixed as part of Tony Mansfield’s original production, runs approximately 6:13. It was issued in the United States on the promotional 12″ SPRO-9891 as the “Long Version.”
A second U.S. promotional 12″, SPRO-9924, contained a newer “Remixed Version” by John “Jellybean” Benitez. That version runs approximately 5:41 and, unlike the earlier mix, begins with drums. The Jellybean mix was subsequently issued in the UK as the “American Remix.” My UK pressing runs 5:43, putting it squarely in this Jellybean remix family.
If that sounds confusing, it gets worse.
Over the years, reissues and compilations have sometimes mixed up the credits. The One Way/EMI collection Everything And More reportedly included the Jellybean mix while identifying it as the Tony Mansfield 12″ mix. Other discographies have also attributed the UK “American Remix” to Mansfield. The more recent Chrysalis edition of the debut album identifies the approximately 5:40 version as the “Jellybean Extended Remix.”
So, for collectors keeping score:
The approximately 6:13 version is the earlier Tony Mansfield long version.
The approximately 5:41 to 5:43 version beginning with drums is the John “Jellybean” Benitez remix.
Sometimes the grooves tell the story better than the liner notes.
The B-side, “Pit Stop,” was written by Pete Byrne and Rob Fisher and produced by Tony Mansfield. It was not included on the original UK Burning Bridges LP, making it another reason this 12″ is worth having.
Sadly, both halves of the original Naked Eyes partnership are now gone. Rob Fisher died in 1999. Pete Byrne continued making music and eventually revived Naked Eyes, performing the songs for audiences who had never forgotten them.
There is something especially poignant about listening to “Always Something There To Remind Me” following Pete Byrne’s passing. A song written decades before Naked Eyes recorded it became forever linked to his voice, and its words about memory and the things we can never quite leave behind seem particularly appropriate today.
Pete Byrne helped give the early ’80s a distinctive voice. Thankfully, the records remain.
Rest in peace, Pete Byrne.
SIDE A:
Always Something There To Remind Me (American Remix) 5:43
Remix – John “Jellybean” Benitez
Written-By – Bacharach & David*
SIDE B:
Pit Stop 3:30
Written-By – Byrne, Fisher
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
| Chart (1983) | Peak Position |
| Australia (Kent Music Report) | 7 |
| Canada Top Singles (RPM) | 9 |
| New Zealand (RIANZ) | 2 |
| UK Singles (Official Charts) | 59 |
| US Billboard Hot 100 | 8 |
| US Billboard Adult Contemporary | 31 |
| US Billboard Dance/Disco | 37 |
| US Cash Box Top 100 | 7 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: EMI – 12EMI 5334
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM
Country: UK
Released: 1982
Genre: Electronic
Style: New Wave, Synth-pop
CREDITS:
- Producer – Tony Mansfield
NOTES:
Taken from the LP and Cassette “Burning Bridges”
Manufactured in the UK by EMI Records Limited.
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
for BURNING THE GROUND
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon Concorde Music Black
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2
Phono Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
Audio Interface: MOTU M4
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Cleaning Solution: Turgikleen Record Cleaning Solution
Scanner: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner
SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator
RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi
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Thank you DjPaulT
There is actually a single edit of this remix! it is found here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVd8Z6t4uZQ&list=RDpVd8Z6t4uZQ&start_radio=1
Always
Something
There
to remind me…..
😢
So, after all the chaos, there are just two original “mixes” of this classic track, right?
Thank you for sharing about his passing. Naked Eyes were truly an important part of the 80’s American Music Landscape.
I love this song so much, including the original 60 version by Dionne Warwick and the 90s EDM version by Tin Tin Out. I had no idea there were so many remixes of the Naked Eyes version. Can’t wait to dig into this! THANK YOU!
This is one of those songs from my teenage years that you know exists but on the “edge”of you conscience (if that makes sense…). Reading its title brings it back in my head immediately, playing it back confirms it! Thanks for sharing, one for the “keep” collection.
I know exactly what you mean, Ronald. Some songs sit quietly in the back of your mind for years, then the second you see the title or hear that opening, it all comes rushing back. Glad this one made it into the “keep” collection. Thanks so much for the great comment and for stopping by!
In the recesses of my mind it was Marc Almond singing this 🙂
Thank you Paul for this tribute to Pete Byrne, I was saddened to hear of his loss. So influential was this song (the Naked Eyes version) that it’s become representative of 1983, it was so ubiquitous, and my generation never even knew Burt Bacharach and Hal David were behind it! I’m actually surprised it didn’t reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Thank you for clarifying the release history behind this… I’m looking forward to the American Remix and the exclusive B-side. Thank you Paul! Have a great weekend everyone!!
Thank you, Retro Hound. I was saddened by the news about Pete Byrne too. You’re right, this version really does feel like a piece of 1983. It’s one of those records that instantly takes you back to that time. And I agree, considering how familiar it became in the U.S., it’s surprising it stopped at No. 8. I’m glad the mix history was helpful too, because that one can get confusing fast. I think you’ll really enjoy the American Remix and “Pit Stop.” Have a great weekend!
Well, I knew to expect something amazing on Friday and you have not disappointed Paul!! Such a classic track. It is one of those songs that really epitomizes the 80’s (which seems to be a bit of a loose theme this week!). I honestly can not imagine anyone who frequents this glorious corner of the web not being thrilled with this record. Fascinating write up too. Was terrible news to hear about Pete Byrne. It really does give a bit of a different flair listening to the track now. The wistful longing almost takes on a whole new meaning. Really… Read more »
Thank you so much, JP. I think you nailed it about the song taking on a different feeling now. That wistful quality was always there, but hearing Pete Byrne’s voice after the news of his passing gives it another layer. I’m really glad you enjoyed the transfer and the Jellybean remix. And yes, I had to laugh at the “American Remix” title on a UK release too. Once I started sorting through the different versions and credits, I knew that whole tangled story had to go into the post. It’s also great to finally have “Pit Stop” represented here from… Read more »
Beautiful! Thank you! And for those inclined to geek out on 80’s pop quizzes, these two link the bands Climie Fisher and Tears For Fears (via “Neon”)
Thanks, Andy! That’s a great bit of ’80s trivia too. The Neon connection really does create an interesting little family tree between Naked Eyes, Climie Fisher, and Tears For Fears. Definitely one for the pop quiz crowd! Glad you enjoyed the post.
Thank you, Paul. I only own the Naked Eyes album, and I haven’t listened to it in “years.” You’ve filled a gap in my collection once again. What a fantastic upload – a version I had completely forgotten about. I’m going to look for the album in my collection now and enjoy it with a beer (or two). Wishing everyone here a great weekend.
Thank you, Toxicaudio. I love when a post sends someone back into their own collection to rediscover an album they haven’t played in years. That’s half the fun of this stuff. Glad I could fill another gap for you too. Enjoy the Naked Eyes LP and those beers, and have a great weekend!
Paul, Naked Eyes always held a special place in my record collection. You mentioned that Pete & Rob were previously in the band Neon. Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, who would later form the band Tears for Fears. I have both the US vinyl albums of Naked Eyes. I have played both in tribute to a band gone too soon.
Thank you, SynthPapa. Neon really was an interesting little meeting point in the history of both Naked Eyes and Tears For Fears. It’s amazing how much great music grew out of that circle of musicians.
I’m glad you still have both of the U.S. Naked Eyes albums. Playing them now feels like a fitting tribute to Pete and Rob, especially with so much of their music tied to such strong memories. Gone too soon, but thankfully the records are still here for us to enjoy.
Thank you, PaulT! “Always Something There To Remind Me” has (Always) been one of my favorites from high school and the 80s in general. As of this morning, I’d (Always) thought I had a copy of this track stashed safely away. After searching through my HDDs I discovered that I did NOT have a copy of this gem. Until today, when you graciously decided to share another of your pristine rips. Thank you, sir. ps – yes, I’m back from the Black Hole abyss, aka not having a working computer. I’m back, with my iMac, to really make romance. Or… Read more »
Glad to have you back, Muff Diver. Sounds like the iMac has officially pulled you out of the Black Hole abyss.
And that is exactly the kind of surprise I love hearing about. You were sure “Always Something There To Remind Me” was hiding somewhere on those drives, only to find out there was a Naked Eyes-sized hole waiting to be filled. Happy to help fix that.
Great Lou Reed reference too. “I Love You Suzanne” is such a fun track. Welcome back, my friend, and enjoy the rip!
Thanks for the warm welcome back, Paul. It’s a pleasure to be back here @ BTG.
I’m back amongst “The Beautiful People” once again, and it feels so right!
I’d better be careful, that sounds like the opening lyrics to some cheesy bubblegum song 😆
Hey Muff Diver!!
I’m so happy you’re back!! It just wasn’t the same without you here! You’re kind of a hero to me! Knowing that you’re into physical fitness/bodybuilding and tremendous “mouthwatering acts”, I admire you very much, Sir!!
Hope you have a terrific weekend!!
Jeff
Hello Jeff! I’m tickled that I found a notice in my email that informed me of something something post on BTG. So I hit the link and I’ve got a warm welcome, the internet version of man hugs from 2 of the only people I know / recognize from BTG. It’s a pleasant surprise, for sure, and I’m grateful that you’d notice. One thing that’s piqued my curiosity is the personal disclosures. I’ve been trying to recall where / when I revealed my lifelong love of weights, bodybuilding, marathons, etc. I’m not saying anything in particular, it’s just that I… Read more »
You’re not losing brain cells, Muff Diver. When Paul posted his rip of “Mexican Radio” by Wall of Voodoo, you had a great response to the record! It captured my imagination as well and I responded to your comment. Your name has always piqued my interest so it was cool that you shared some personal information about yourself. You remind me of my college buddies with their wild and crazy exploits. Guys like them (and you!) I’ve kinda envied for what they did. I always lived a bit vicariously through their experiences. I can certainly imagine a guy like you,… Read more »
Wow! I’ve been called many things in my life, mostly : GDamned A**hole, Retard or Dumbass. Sometimes during a real dressing down, I’ve been called all three names (and several more) in a single screaming sentence. But this is the first time I can recall where someone complimented me with “Cool.” Thank you very much Jeff for your kind assessment of my persona. I’m really touched that I’ve left a positive impression on anyone, let alone being “cool.” I have had an interesting life back in the past. I was wild and reckless, especially in the Army. I honestly believed… Read more »
Thank you, Muff Diver, for this reply. I admire your humility. I appreciate when someone is being humble, and you my friend have that in spades. Wisdom comes with age and maturity. And, YES, even though you pushed the limits sometimes, you’re still here, and I’m glad about that! We’ve all mellowed but life is for living. Some choices may not have the best thoughts behind them, but this is what being human is all about. I think it’s great, you opening up, Muff Diver! I’m sorry for interrupting this music thread and discussion here, but I find you to… Read more »
Quite the favorite of mine! Those thunderous and almost cacophonous chimes are really something! With your write-up, Paul, it’s so bizarre that this wasn’t a massive hit in the UK. Usually I can always count on the European music being more progressive than what we have here in the United States. This single has that exuberant electronic feel making it my favorite cover of the song! When it came out here I was so excited about this brand new British invasion. As a Disco lover, synth and electronic, New Wave won me over to be my ultimate musical choice! I’m… Read more »
Thank you so much, Jeff. Those huge chimes really do make the record. The whole production has such a dramatic electronic punch, and I agree that it’s surprising the song didn’t do much better in the UK. I also understand what you mean about hearing of another artist passing. So many of the musicians we grew up with are tied to very specific memories, places, and times in our lives. Thankfully the music keeps all of that alive. It really means a lot to hear how happy you are that I’m back. I’m enjoying getting into the routine again, and… Read more »
Great minds Paul! I brought my Burning Bridges CD remaster from Cherry Pop to work today! Core 80s tracks from Naked Eyes. Sad to hear about the passing of Pete Byrne. I was hoping to catch them at one of the 80s music festivals.
Thanks and have a great weekend!
Great minds indeed, Mikey-D! That Burning Bridges remaster is a perfect choice for today. Naked Eyes really packed a lot of classic early-’80s synth-pop into that album.
I was saddened by Pete Byrne’s passing too. It’s especially tough knowing you had hoped to see them at one of the ’80s festivals. At least we still have the records, and they sound just as good all these years later.
Thanks, Mikey-D. Have a great weekend too!
Wow, Paul. Take us to school! This is fascinating background on this remix. Thanks for the info – this is what I live for! Great song and great extended remix. It’s nice to have the right name to the mix finally. I’ve always loved this song by Naked Eyes. Thanks for featuring it and this impeccable rip. Rest in peace, Pete Byrne.
Thank you, MusicMan3. I’m glad you enjoyed the background because this one really did turn into a little detective story. The conflicting credits around the different 12″ mixes have caused confusion for years, so it was satisfying to finally sort out which version is which.
And I agree, it’s a terrific remix. Jellybean gave it just enough extra punch without losing what made the original so good. I’m happy the transfer did it justice.
Rest in peace, Pete Byrne, and thanks again for the great comment!
I agree, Richard. Naked Eyes may not have had a long string of hits, but the different mixes and regional releases gave those songs a much longer life. For collectors especially, having different versions in the U.S. and UK makes the catalog even more interesting. “Always Something There To Remind Me” is a perfect example of how one song can have several identities depending on which record you own.
what a story behind this one! thanks!!
You’re very welcome, Raymond. This one definitely had more of a story behind it than I expected, especially once I started sorting out the different remixes and credits. Glad you enjoyed the post!