Frontiers [Release Date : 16.02.24]
They are indeed, performing here in the instantly recognisable melodic style that defined their key albums. There’s none of the artificial complexity that some bands seem to think is necessary as they move into the twilight of their career.
For the last 15 years, the reformed original lineup has remained intact, with mainmen Johnny Dee on vocals and Derry Grehan on guitar. Both contributing the majority of the songwriting.
UK/Canadian producer, Mike (Steven Tyler/Jennifer Paige) Krompass has combined with the band to catch the mood of its glorious past, at the same time crafting the production to a contemporary rock blueprint.
Let’s skip the title track for a moment and go straight to the two most interesting songs, ‘Give It All’ and ‘Not Afraid to Fall’. Earnestly introspective, they look back on the band’s humble beginnings. Each is a paean to commitment and staying power, and the defiance and drive they instil. It’s almost a bonus to learn that the songs’ elegant melodies and memorable hooks still stand tall among the defining sounds of AOR.
The more informed will know that the label’s been trailing the album for 4 years now. ‘Tell Me What You Want’ was released as a single in 2019, testing the 21st century waters. With his finger on the pulse of today’s popular music, producer Krompass nudges the needle of the band’s stylistic compass neatly in the right direction.
It’s also gratifying to have found that Johnny Dee’s rich and vibrant vocals on opening and title track, ‘Alive’ are still finely tuned to “FM Radio” specifications. It’s like meeting an old friend and inviting him in.
Other album highlights include ‘Find What You’re Looking For’, a silky mix of Von Groove’s hi energy Melodic Rock, and the band’s own undeniable songcraft, strongly textured with their sometime blue collar rock leanings. ‘Done Doin’ has a heavier, crunchier, Beatlish tone, with an attractive touch of Desmond Child’s crowd pleasing songwriting in the song’s Alice Cooper, Trash era chorus.
The fact that Honeymoon Suite is still going strong, still playing live, and still recording stuff as good as this, is testament to their talent and durability. Long may they continue. ****
Review by Brian McGowan
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Power Plays w/c 15 April 2024
ENMY The Ledge (FiXT)
KAROBELA Get Hard (indie)
KATH & THE KICKS Neptune (indie)
THE BEE TELLERS River Poem (Black Sand Records)
LAUREN FREEBIRD Like A Bomb (indie)
Featured Albums w/c 15 April 2024
09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003-2023
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2023
14:00-16:00 KATARINA PEJAK – Pearls On A String (Ruf Records)
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