Tribute to Myles Goodwyn: Remembering the Legacy of April Wine’s Frontman
This video is dedicated to Myles’s family, friends, and April Wine fans worldwide. I aim to share what the band meant to me, how I discovered their music, and how it has resonated with me over the years. I’ll also highlight some tracks and albums that you, as a fan or a newcomer to April Wine, might want to explore.
My journey with April Wine began in the late ’70s, a time when punk was evolving and the new wave of British heavy metal was emerging. Record labels were eagerly signing bands, and April Wine, already seasoned by several albums, found a new wave of success. My first real exposure to them was at the Monsters of Rock concert in 1980. The lineup was stellar, featuring Rainbow, Judas Priest, Scorpions, Saxon, Riot, Touch, and, of course, April Wine.
The festival program from that day, which I still have, introduced me to April Wine’s music. I remember being captivated by their single “Ladies Man” and the EP “I Like to Rock,” which included tracks from their albums “Harder Faster” and “First Glance.” These albums, especially “Harder Faster,” with its unique rendition of King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man,” became a staple in my collection.
For many fans, “Nature of the Beast” is the go-to album, but my personal favorite remains “Harder Faster.” It’s a testament to their melodic rock style, distinct from heavy metal but equally compelling. Canadian rock was thriving at this time, and April Wine was a significant part of that movement.
Reflecting on Myles Goodwyn’s passing, it’s essential to acknowledge the impact of artists like him who might not always be at the forefront of rock’s biggest stars but have significantly contributed to the genre. Today, I’ll be revisiting “Harder Faster,” “First Glance,” and other albums like “Nature of the Beast,” “Power Play,” “Animal Grace,” and their live BBC performances. Their music is a treasure trove of well-rounded, melodic Canadian rock.
For those looking to dive deeper into April Wine’s discography, the “Classic Album Box Set” by Caroline Records is an excellent start. It includes six albums and captures the essence of their classic rock era.
As we remember Myles Goodwyn, let’s celebrate the legacy he and April Wine have left behind. Their music will continue to inspire and entertain new generations of fans. To all April Wine fans, new and old, I encourage you to rediscover their music and keep the spirit of Myles Goodwyn alive.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
