Future Tense

The song Future Tense by April Wine from their 1981 album The Nature of the Beast is a high-energy hard rock track that captures the band’s signature guitar-driven sound. One intriguing piece of trivia about the song comes from its lyrical content, which reflects a sense of urgency and existential pressure, with lines like “Each moment’s just a reflex / Response is just emotion / The pressure never ends, baby.” Fans on platforms like Genius have noted its intense, almost dystopian vibe, suggesting it resonates with themes of societal stress, possibly influenced by the early 1980s cultural climate. The song was a staple in the band’s live performances, as evidenced by its inclusion in the setlist for their 1981 concert at the Hammersmith Odeon in London, captured in the April Wine Live in London recording. This performance, available on IMDb trivia, highlights the song’s ability to energize audiences with its blistering twin-guitar attack, a hallmark of the band’s three-guitar lineup.

Another layer of interest around Future Tense stems from fan discussions on social media and music forums. A post on Reddit in 2023 praised the album’s cover art and the band’s legacy, with users mentioning how tracks like Future Tense showcase April Wine’s knack for crafting memorable hard rock anthems. Additionally, reviews on Rate Your Music describe the song as one of the stronger tracks on the album’s second side, appreciated for its intensity despite some critics viewing other songs as filler. The track’s raw energy and driving rhythm made it a favorite among Zoo Freaks tuning into THE ZOO, perfectly aligning with the station’s vibe of spinning classic rock with a rebellious edge.

April Wine began their journey in 1969 in Waverley, Nova Scotia, Canada, when brothers David and Ritchie Henman, along with their cousin Jim Henman and lead vocalist/guitarist Myles Goodwyn, formed the band. Originally based in Halifax, they relocated to Montreal in 1970 to pursue their music career, a move that proved pivotal. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1971, laid the groundwork for their blend of hard rock and melodic pop. Early success came with their second album, On Record (1972), featuring the hit single “You Could Have Been a Lady,” which cracked the Canadian Top 20. The addition of guitarist Brian Greenway in 1977 introduced the band’s distinctive three-guitar sound, elevating albums like First Glance (1978) and Harder… Faster (1979). This lineup, including Gary Moffet on guitar, Steve Lang on bass, and Jerry Mercer on drums, propelled The Nature of the Beast to platinum status in the U.S., marking their commercial peak.

The band’s evolution from a local Nova Scotia act to international rock staples was driven by relentless touring and a knack for catchy, guitar-heavy songs. Myles Goodwyn, the band’s primary songwriter, drew inspiration from influences like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, blending melodic hooks with raw rock energy. Their breakthrough in the U.S. came with First Glance, featuring the hit “Roller,” which became a Top 40 single. By the time The Nature of the Beast was recorded in 1980 at Le Manoir Studios in England, following a European tour, April Wine had honed their craft through years of global performances, including a notable appearance at the 1980 Monsters of Rock festival. Their dedication to their craft and ability to adapt to the changing rock landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s solidified their status as a Canadian rock institution.

Fans can connect with April Wine through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates on tours, music releases, and band history. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive on platforms like April Wine Fans on Facebook, where enthusiasts discuss favorite tracks, share concert memories, and celebrate the band’s legacy. Another fan-driven hub, Heavy Harmonies, offers detailed discography information and fan-submitted reviews, making it a go-to for those obsessed with albums like The Nature of the Beast. These communities keep the spirit of April Wine alive, ensuring songs like Future Tense continue to resonate with new and longtime listeners.