AFTER HOURS - review added 27th April 2011
Album Review: Against The Grain (2011)
For fans of: AOR
UK band After Hours was formed way back in 1987 and, judging by the press release, they very quickly started living the life most bands of 2011 can only dream about. Signed by Munich's BMG Ariola, the band was flown out to Germany to do a photo shoot and interviews, and they also secured a sponsorship deal with Adidas promoting a range of sports clothing. Appearances on (Germany's) Top Of The Pops, and a live concert for Metal Hammers Christmas party followed. Their last album back then was released in 1992 after much upheaval, and it was only in 2008 that the band reformed.
On the evidence of this release it's a shame they missed all those years. There are some fantastic sounds going on all over the duration of this soft rocking LP. There's a hint of progression in the mix - think ASIA more than Dream Theater - and the overall sound recalls bands like Mastedon, 101 South and more.
The harmonies and melodies are all first class, and John Francis' vocals are achingly memorable. The musicianship really backs the singing up too. This is a tight, very talented band who sound a notch or two above your average group.
The songs can be hit or miss, but there's definitely more good than bad news throughout. The best moments are knocking on the door of classic status. Best moments? 'Turn On Your Radio', 'Angel', 'Hold On', 'Let It Go', and the stonking 'I Want Yesterday' are all way above average.
In Summation:
This is a great release with only one downside: the fact the band haven't released anything for nearly twenty years. Hopefully this will be the first of many new albums.
Entertainment/Enjoyment:
Musicianship:
Vocals:
Song Writing:
Production:
Overall (Not An Average Of The Above):
Track List:
01. Stand Up
02. Turn On Your Radio
03. Eleventh Hour
04. Against The Grain
05. Angel
06. When You're Around
07. Hold On
08. Let It Go
09. I Want Yesterday
10. I Need Your Love
11. Eleventh Hour (Acoustic)
Band/Performers:
John Francis - vocals
Tim Payne - lead guitar
Martin Walls - bass
Chris Pope - drums
Sean McMenemy - keys and guitars
Other Info:
Recorded at Aubitt Recording Studios in Southampton, England.
The engineer was Rob Aubrey and the album was co-produced by AFTER HOURS and Rob Aubrey
Label: AOR Heaven
Artist's website(s): After Hours | MySpace
