Review by Bobby R Rock of BS Live Rocks
Honeymoon Suite
Album: Hands Up
Released: March 10, 2017
Genre: Rock
I have to admit that I am usually reluctant to listen to a new album released by an artist that has been around for 30+ years and carries a healthy catalog of hits, not to mention being regarded as one of Canada’s legendary rock bands. I was hesitant because I didn’t want this new collection of songs to tarnish their legacy by putting out subpar material. Listening to this with an opening mind, I was pleasantly surprised.
Honeymoon Suite is the band that I speak of, who have just released a brand new album titled Hands Up through a PledgeMusic campaign. This is their 7th studio album and first since 2008’s Clifton Hill.
I will give a few thoughts on each song as I have been able to listen to the album quite a few times.
Hands Up – Great opening tune that is a mid tempo rocker with plenty of catchy parts throughout that stick with you
Like the Stars – This to me is a classic Honeymoon Suite sound which has some great classy guitar leads near the end of the song courtesy of Derry Grehan.
Never Was A Forever – my personal favourite on the album in which Johnnie Dee really shines vocally. He has not lost a step at all which is so nice to hear. If you are a guitar fan there is also plenty to listen to with two great solos.
Market Square with Leah Marlene – this song features Derry’s daughter trading off vocals with Johnnie as well as providing harmonies which sound amazing. I find that this song has a real modern feel to it as well.
One Step Closer – great groove on this tune provided by the rhythm section of bass player Gary Lalonde and drummer Dave Betts.
Hey Deanna and 1986 – love the feel of these tunes. For some reason this is a throwback type tune that you would hear back in the 80’s. The keyboards provided by Peter Nunn fill the sound out nicely and a super slick walking bass line is cool.
Burning In Love (live) and New Girl Now (live) – a great way to round out the disc with two live tracks that showcases the energy and talent of the band having fun with tracks that they have played for years.
I will have to say that this collection of seven new songs and two live tracks did not disappoint. The band have successfully stuck to what they do best and that is written hook laden melodic rock songs that could fit well onto any one of their previous releases.
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