What makes First Glance by April Wine notable?

First Glance reached significant chart success, peaking at number 18 on the Billboard 200 and further establishing April Wine's reputation in North America. The album's singles received considerable radio play, showcasing the band's ability to blend hard rock with accessible melodies—a hallmark that influenced many subsequent rock bands. Released in January 1979, First Glance was April Wine's fifth studio album, following their commercial breakthrough with 1977's Nature of the Beast. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their place in the Canadian rock scene and were gaining traction internationally, particularly in the US market.

Who is First Glance for?

First Glance works well if you're into steady energy for social gatherings, melodic hooks for sing-alongs and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on First Glance?

First Glance has 9 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

First Glance

April Wine · 1979

33 min · 9 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant blend of hard rock and melodic hooks, embodying the energetic spirit of late 70s rock music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Get Ready for Love — This track opens the album with an infectious energy and catchy chorus, setting a lively tone that showcases April Wine’s knack for memorable hooks.
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Roller — With its driving rhythm and anthemic quality, 'Roller' exemplifies the band's hard rock sound while highlighting their lyrical themes of freedom and adventure.
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Rock n’ Roll Is a Vicious Game — This track captures the essence of rock culture's ups and downs, blending sharp lyrics with a dynamic arrangement that resonates with fans.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and energetic performances but lacks standout depth or cohesion throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature driving guitar riffs and upbeat tempos, establishing a high energy that persists through the first half of the album.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the melodic aspect of the hard rock sound.
The last two tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a contrast with the earlier energetic songs and allowing for a more reflective mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady energy for social gatherings
melodic hooks for sing-alongs
short tracks for quick enjoyment
feel-good anthems for road trips

Maybe skip if you

slow-paced reflective listening
long, sprawling musical explorations

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1979, First Glance was April Wine's fifth studio album, following their commercial breakthrough with 1977's Nature of the Beast. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their place in the Canadian rock scene and were gaining traction internationally, particularly in the US market.
Stylistic neighbors: Boston· Foreigner· Journey