THE PRP PREMIERES COVERT STATIONS' ELECTRIFIED COVER OF CHEAP TRICK'S "THE FLAME"
Featuring Vision of Disorder Guitarist Matt Baumbach, Covert Stations Returns With The Latest Entry In Its Acclaimed Borrowed Singles Series
Watch the Video Premiere:
https://www.theprp.com/2026/06/26/news/covert-stations-enlist-vision-of-disorders-matt-baumbach-for-their-cover-of-cheap-tricks-the-flame/
Covert Stations returns with another unforgettable installment in its acclaimed Borrowed Singles Series , delivering a powerful new interpretation of Cheap Trick's timeless 1988 hit, "The Flame." The music video made its exclusive premiere via ThePRP on June 26, introducing fans to the project's latest all-star collaboration before the single became available across all major streaming platforms.
Originally released as the lead single from Cheap Trick's landmark 1988 album Lap of Luxury , "The Flame" became the band's first No. 1 hit and remains one of the most recognizable power ballads in rock history. Written by Bob Mitchell and Nick Graham, the song has endured for nearly four decades through its soaring melodies and heartfelt emotion. Covert Stations honors that legacy while injecting the classic with renewed energy, modern production, and the unmistakable chemistry of some of the underground music scene's most accomplished musicians.
The current lineup behind Covert Stations' rendition of "The Flame" features vocalist Craig Cirinelli (Hidden Cabins, (Damn) This Desert Air, The Atlantic Union Project), guitarist Matt Baumbach (Vision of Disorder, M@), drummer Brian Leahy (Eyeswan, Hidden Cabins), bassist Mark Wilkinson (The Evening Sons, Rydell, The Atlantic Union Project), and keyboardist, engineer, and producer Chris Badami (I Can Make a Mess).
Recorded during the first months of 2026, the project embodies the collaborative spirit that has become synonymous with Covert Stations. Each musician tracked their parts independently from locations spanning Northern New Jersey, Long Island, New York, and Brighton, England before the recordings were brought together at Portrait Recording Studios in Pompton Plains, New Jersey, where Chris Badami mixed the song into a seamless and emotionally charged performance.
Founded by Craig Cirinelli, Covert Stations has built a reputation for pairing ever-changing lineups of respected underground musicians with iconic songs from rock history. Rather than simply recreating familiar classics, the project reimagines them through fresh arrangements and inspired performances that bridge generations of rock fans.
Previous installments in the Borrowed Singles Series have paid tribute to artists including Fleetwood Mac, INXS, Roxette, The Cult, R.E.M., Modern English, and The Psychedelic Furs, each receiving praise for honoring the originals while offering listeners a unique new perspective.
With "The Flame," Covert Stations continues its mission of celebrating timeless songwriting through modern collaboration, proving that great songs can find new life when placed in the hands of passionate musicians.
"The Flame" Personnel
Craig Cirinelli – Vocals
Matt Baumbach – Electric & Acoustic Guitars
Brian Leahy – Drums & Percussion
Mark Wilkinson – Bass Guitar
Chris Badami – Keyboards
Recording Credits
Vocals: Recorded in a home office in Boonton, New Jersey
Electric, Acoustic & Baritone Guitars: Recorded in a home studio in North Babylon, New York
Drums & Percussion: Recorded at Digital Mix Studios in Landing, New Jersey by Guy Neighmond
Bass Guitar: Recorded at Sussex University in Brighton, England by Jason Douglas
Keyboards: Recorded at Portrait Recording Studios in Pompton Plains, New Jersey by Chris Badami
Mixed: Portrait Recording Studios, Pompton Plains, New Jersey by Chris Badami
Mastered: Sun Room Audio, Cornwall, New York by Dan Coutant
About Covert Stations
Created by Craig Cirinelli, Covert Stations is a collaborative recording project that brings together musicians from across the underground rock and metal world to reinterpret some of the most beloved songs ever written. With an ever-evolving roster of contributors and an unwavering commitment to creative reinvention, the project continues to shine new light on classic material while introducing it to a new generation of listeners.
Promo Stream:
For more information and to explore the complete Borrowed Singles Series , visit:
https://covertstations.com
Connect:
https://www.facebook.com/covertstations
https://www.instagram.com/covertstations
https://covertstations.bandcamp.com/
Contact: covertstations@gmail.com
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