This is interesting, Jay, because I'm seeing the same thing in my 55g.  I just replaced the old no-name light fixture on my tank with the Aquasky from my old rice paddy tank.  The old one had a definite pink cast to it, and the fish were very shy, constantly hiding out.  I thought this was due to most of them being wild caught.  Under the new light which is more of a normal day-light color, my barbs and danios are out and about all the time, though their colors aren't quite as vivid.  It's interesting to see such a drastic behavior change just by changing the light.
On a side note, the aquasky is only 36", compared to the old light's 48", but it's just as bright, maybe even a little brighter.  I ordered one of those hidden strip lights you suggested to illuminate the bank overhang in back, which should really make the tank pop.