Status Quo - Never Too Late (LP) - VG+/VG+

Status Quo's album "Never Too Late" was released on 22nd October 1981, and it marked an interesting chapter in the band's long and storied career. Known for their boogie rock sound, Status Quo had already established themselves as a staple of the British rock scene by the time this album came out. With a career spanning over a decade, they had a loyal fan base and a string of hits that had solidified their place in rock history.

"Never Too Late" is often seen as a transitional album for the band. It features a mix of their classic rock sound with some new influences that were emerging in the early '80s. The album includes tracks that showcase their signature guitar riffs and catchy choruses, but it also experiments with different styles, reflecting the changing musical landscape of the time. The production on the album is polished, which was a bit of a departure from their earlier, rawer sound. This was partly due to the involvement of producer John Eden, who had worked with various artists and brought a fresh perspective to the band's music.

One of the standout tracks on the album is the title track, "Never Too Late," which encapsulates the band's ethos of resilience and perseverance. The song features a catchy melody and an uplifting message, making it a favorite among fans. Another notable track is "Ol' Rag Blues," which showcases the band's ability to blend rock with blues influences, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshing. The album also includes "A Mess of Blues," which is a cover of a classic song, demonstrating the band's roots in blues rock.

Critically, "Never Too Late" received a mixed reception. Some reviewers appreciated the band's willingness to evolve and experiment with their sound, while others felt that it strayed too far from the formula that had made them successful. Major publications like NME and Rolling Stone had varying opinions, with some praising the album's energy and others critiquing its production choices. However, fans of Status Quo generally embraced the album, and it has since become a part of their extensive discography that fans look back on fondly.

Interestingly, the album was released during a time when the band was facing some internal challenges. There were tensions within the group, and the pressures of the music industry were beginning to take their toll. Despite this, the band managed to pull together and create an album that, while not their most commercially successful, still resonated with their core audience. In interviews, band members have reflected on this period as a time of growth and change, both personally and musically.

"Never Too Late" also holds a certain cultural significance as it was released during a time when rock music was evolving rapidly. The early '80s saw the rise of new wave and punk, and while Status Quo remained firmly rooted in rock, their willingness to adapt and incorporate new sounds was a testament to their longevity in the industry. The album's themes of resilience and not giving up resonate with many listeners, making it a timeless piece of work.

In terms of awards, while "Never Too Late" did not receive any major accolades, Status Quo as a band has been recognized with various awards throughout their career, including multiple BRIT Awards and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021. This recognition speaks to their impact on the music scene and their enduring legacy.

Overall, "Never Too Late" is an album that may not have reached the heights of some of Status Quo's earlier works, but it certainly has its charm and merits. It captures a moment in time for the band and showcases their ability to adapt while still staying true to their roots. For fans of classic rock, this album is a delightful listen that reminds us that it's never too late to embrace change and keep rocking.