Sweet: "Lost Angels" Single (1976)

Sweet’s “Lost Angels” 7-inch vinyl single, was released in the UK on October 15, 1976, on RCA Victor (catalogue: RCA 2748). Backed with “Funk It Up,” this non-album release captured the glam rock band's evolving sound during a transitional phase, blending hard rock energy with pop sensibilities. Written by the classic lineup of Brian Connolly, Steve Priest, Andy Scott, and Mick Tucker, the A-side offered a melodic lament on lost innocence, while the B-side brought a funky groove. Produced with assistance from engineers Louis Austin and Nick Ryan, it marked Sweet's early RCA era, following their departure from Bell Records, though it achieved limited commercial success.

Single Overview

A-Side: “Lost Angels” (3:59)

Written by Brian Connolly, Steve Priest, Andy Scott, and Mick Tucker. A reflective glam rock track with soaring vocals and driving riffs, evoking themes of fleeting youth and isolation. Connolly's powerful lead and Tucker's dynamic drumming shine, making it a fan favorite for its emotional depth.

B-Side: “Funk It Up” (3:29)

Written by the band. A groovy, upbeat funk-rock instrumental or light vocal track, showcasing Sweet's versatility with bass-driven rhythms and Priest's flair. It provided a contrasting energy to the A-side's melancholy, highlighting their experimental side in the mid-'70s.

Release Details:

Label: RCA Victor (UK pressing, 45 RPM).

Format: 7-inch vinyl single, often in a company sleeve or promotional packaging with band artwork.

Notes: ℗ 1976 RCA Records; published by Sweet Publishing / Carlin Music Corp. Some pressings include matrix numbers like FKAS 31242 for the A-side. Variants exist in Germany and Portugal with similar catalog numbers.

Production and Context

Recorded in 1976, the single was self-produced by Sweet with engineering support from Louis Austin and Nick Ryan, reflecting the band's growing creative control after hits like "Ballroom Blitz." The lineup—Brian Connolly (vocals), Steve Priest (bass, vocals), Andy Scott (guitar, vocals), and Mick Tucker (drums)—delivered a polished yet raw sound amid internal tensions and lineup stability issues. Issued on RCA after Bell, it preceded the album Off the Record (1977), where "Lost Angels" was later included. Released during punk's rise, it represented Sweet's attempt to adapt glam rock for a changing landscape, though without the Chinn-Chapman songwriting magic of their peak.

Chart Performance

In the UK, "Lost Angels" failed to enter the Top 40, reflecting Sweet's declining chart fortunes post their glam heyday. Internationally, it saw limited impact, with no major entries in countries like Germany, Austria, or Sweden, where earlier singles had succeeded. The single's modest reception contributed to the band's shift toward harder rock edges in subsequent releases.

Legacy and Collectibility

"Lost Angels" endures as a deep cut in Sweet's catalog, later covered by German power metal band Gamma Ray on their 2013 Master of Confusion EP, attesting to its rock appeal. A music video featuring the band added visual flair from the era.

Label: RCA Victor Country: France Catalogue: 42.584

Original 1976 UK vinyls fetch £5–£20 on Discogs, with German or Portuguese variants similarly priced—seek pressings with intact sleeves or promo info sheets for added value. Tracks stream on Spotify, preserving their glam essence on compilations like Off the Record reissues.

This single highlights Sweet's resilient spirit in the late glam years—a worthwhile find for collectors.

Have you added this Sweet single to your vinyl rotation?

What's your favorite from their RCA period? Share in the comments!