Aftershock

Released in 1988 (and 1989 in various territories), Aftershock serves as a comeback attempt for Average White Band following a mid-eighties hiatus. The record features three original members - Alan Gorrie, Onnie McIntyre, and Roger Ball - but marks a significant sonic departure from their Atlantic Records era. Produced with the high-fidelity sheen typical of the late eighties, the album incorporates drum machines and heavy synthesizer arrangements, aligning them with the contemporary R&B sound of the time. Alex Ligertwood, known for his work with Santana, provides lead vocals, while the legendary Chaka Khan contributes guest vocals on two tracks, including 'Sticky Situation.' Despite the band's pedigree and the high production value, the album suffered from poor promotion by Track Records. Historically, it is viewed as a transitional work that saw the band attempting to modernize their 'blue-eyed soul' identity for a new generation of listeners, resulting in a record that is as much synth-pop as it is funk.