The Afters – Never Going Back To Ok

Columbia Records

The Afters hail from the good ol USA and Never Going Back To Ok is their 2nd full-length release following I Wish We All Could Win (2002). Although I haven’t listened to their debut album, and not usually one to prejudge but I don’t get the impression that this band ever really left “Ok”.

It is all very safe, radio friendly MOR pop rock! I’m not saying anything is wrong with this; I just struggle to find anything that really stands out and excites me about this record. It definitely sounds as though the band have found their comfort zone; pop perfect melodies riding on top of simple arrangements. Nearly every song could feature on the latest teen movie or must see American soap!

There is definitely cohesion running throughout, almost to the point where your left wondering if the next song has started or if it’s the still the same one. Give it another week and I might say Never Going Back To Ok is a good bet to pop on whilst not really doing much, easy listening material. Today however, I’m looking for something with a little difference and edge to it, nonetheless I have no doubt that this will please their target audience.

Words by Joel Ross