Sunday, 28 August 2022

Homecoming - AMERICA***

Ventura Highway/To Each His Own/Don't Cross The River/Moon Song/Only In Your Heart/Till The Sun Comes Up Again/Cornwall Blank/Head & Heart/California Revisited/Saturn Nights

Homecoming was the follow up album from the soft rock group America. Apart from their highly original first single, none of their later releases made much impact in the UK. This was in contrast to the US as shown by the No. 8 placing of Ventura Highway. (US:9 UK:21)

“They make a lot of simple soft-rock tunes that are perfectly fit for a road trip, but that's the problem: it's nothing more than some enjoyable background music. The album lacks originality and didn't stand out much from the rest of the similar acts of their time. It has a few great songs but overall is nothing special.”

“America, the band, peaked with this collection of faultless songs. The group occasionally hit these heights with the odd song on other albums but never to such effect and or in such abundance. It would be pointless to cite particular highlights as each and every song is perfect and none eclipses another.”

“This album is a nice, little acoustic record. It ups the ante on some songs and has some rocking moments. Check out Moon Song, with its rocking drums and driving guitar. They seem to be only known for their hits, but they also have some good unknown gems.”

Homecoming is an acoustic assortment of thoughtful, well-written, professionally performed songs, embellished in the golden California sunset. It's one of their better albums and, along with their self-titled debut, is essential for America fans.”

“America second effort is nearly as good as their debut. Here the songs are a bit more pop and polished which is more accessible than the innovative guitar parts in their previous album. Nevertheless, all the songs here are excellent and catchy.”

Homecoming builds on the sound and success of their first album, but it also takes a step towards the commercial soft rock sound that would eventually lead to their demise. Fortunately, it stays within the bounds of down-to-earth hippie relevancy and doesn't alienate the fans.”

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