I've been in UK for the last week and I pirchased a copy of the album there. As it was the only CD I had with me it got continuous play in the hire car for the week.
For me, Afterglow is a proper 'band' album. Cohesive in that sense and the sum of its parts and all that........
It isn't a 'guitar' album by any stretch and strikes me as a full band effort. As Glenn has provided the template for all the songs the album flow reflects that. If I'm honest I think it could actually do with one of Joe's numbers as a counterpoint as the other 2 albums have but its is a mild critique.
I love the band vibe of it. If there is a standout performance then it would be Jason's as I think his drumming here is equal to, if not better than, the first album where he was magnificent.
Glenn does the full range vocally, verging sometimes on overdoing it but just about stepping back from the brink.
Afterglow itself and The Circle are faves but the rampant jamming on Common Man is very cool. I guess I can see or hear why Joe might be underwhelmed by his own performance on this album, but IMHO his playing here only serves to emphasise what a tight 'unit' they were leaving space for each other wherever and whenever.
Should this be a closer, either permanent or temporary, then it is an excellent bookend to a project which promised much and delivered on it.
They are a great band. Time will only add more lustre to that reputation and these 3 (4 incl LOE) albums.
Heartfelt thanks BCC for bringing '70's classic rock fully up to date!
MikeH
No Hits, No Hype.......................Classic Rock Jan 2012