German Afternoons marked John Prine's return after a six-year hiatus, being his first studio album since 1980. The title refers to the afternoons Prine spent in Germany during his military service in the 1960s. The album was recorded in Nashville with a more intimate and acoustic approach, reflecting the artist's maturity.
The album's sound is predominantly folk and country, with simple arrangements that highlight Prine's voice and lyrics. Songs like 'Speed of the Sound of Loneliness' and 'The Bottomless Lake' are considered minor classics in his catalog. Jim Rooney's production brings a warmth that complements the melancholic narrative of the songs.
Although not a massive commercial success, German Afternoons is valued by fans as a transitional album that paved the way for his resurgence in the 1990s. Its influence is felt in how Prine blended humor and sadness, establishing a style that would define his later work.