Marriage is a special bond that brings two people from different paths together, uniting them as one. A beautiful life experience, if between the right individuals, it is one thing to have synchronicity as a couple, but another to have it in a creative capacity. Unique, there are select husband-wife music projects out there, and one with high intrigue is that of Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill.
Married for over 22 years at this point, many recognize Vicki Peterson as a founding member and lead guitarist of the top-selling all-women Rock band The Bangles. On the other side of the coin, John Cowsill is unmistakable for his work in the successful family band The Cowsills (which had iconic hits such as 1967’s “The Rain, the Park & Other Things” and 1969’s Hair”) as well as one who worked significantly closely with the Beach Boys for over two decades. Each accomplished in their own right, as a team, Vicki and John also joined with Actor/Musician Bill Mumy in the band Action Skulls for three albums between 2017’s Angels Hear, 2020’s A Different World, and 2023’s From A Running Horse. Something to check out if you enjoy a mix of Classic Rock with Folk Rock, now in 2025, there is the new musical adventure of Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill called Long After The Fire.
The first album the couple has ever recorded as a duo, Long After The Fire, arrived on April 18, 2025, via Label 51 Recordings, and finds them diving deeply into Americana. An album near and dear to their hearts, the songs involved were written by John’s late brothers Barry and Bill Cowsill (both integral parts of The Cowsills). A great way to honor their memory, the songs all have a vivacious feel, which allows Vicki and John to blend their voices and have a good time in the process.
Consisting of twelve songs in total, it kicks into gear with John on lead for the almost Rockabilly sensation of “Fool Is The Last One To Know,” riding along smoothly with others like the heartfelt “Is Anybody Here,” and lovely “A Thousand Times.” Balancing the couple as lead vocals, tracks like “Come To Me” really fit Vicki well, as a heavier Rock sound takes over the chorus, and harmonies in the backdrop really capture your attention. The same can be said for the more straightforward rocker “Downtown” (which finds John back on lead), and the stunningly beautiful “Ol’ Timeless” (bringing Vicki’s singing front and center).
Overall, Long After The Fire is an album that clearly was very personal for Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill. Evident in the material they selected to record, their performances are genuine and energized, making it that much more enjoyable. A record they are proud of, and should be, whether you are a fan of Americana music or new to the genre, this is something worth checking out. Perfect if you love artists like Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, or even Chris Isaak, there are also chances to see Vicki Peterson and John Cowsill perform Long After The Fire live with select tour dates set for early 2026 on the East and West Coasts of the USA. For all these reasons, Cryptic Rock gives Long After The Fire 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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