Honeymoon Suite has finally managed to release their new full-length album “Alive”, after 7 years since the EP “Hands Up” and 16 years since the full-length “Clifton Hill”. That’s quite some time, but the Canadian band seems to be in shape and hasn’t lost their flair for melodic rock / AOR music.
The new album features 10 new songs, plus two re-recorded bonus tracks of their classics “Love Changes Everything” (from “Racing After Midnight” in 1988) and “New Girl Now” (from their self-titled debut in 1984). It’s true that with “Alive”, the guys managed to retain their signature sound while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary edge. The production is powerful, tight, and clear. The album was produced by famed American producer Mike Krompass, who’s worked with artists & bands like Meghan Trainor, Steven Tyler, Theory of a Dead Man, and Smash Mouth.
The album kicks off with the short but good self-titled “Alive” and continues with the modern melodic rocker “Find What You’re Looking For”. “Done Doin Me”, “Not Afraid to Fall”, and “Tell Me What You Want” have some early pop-rock 00s vibes with a contemporary sound. “Give It All” rocks things up a little bit more. “Love Comes” is an absolutely wonderful power ballad. “Broke” is a pleasant pop-rocker with a modern AOR edge. “Living Out Loud” rocks more than any other song on the album. “Doesn’t Feel That Way” is a semi-ballad with a rather melodious chorus, one of the band’s trademarks. Besides the strong musicianship, I’m really impressed with how well Johnnie Dee sings on this album.
I wouldn’t call “Alive” a nostalgic album; on the contrary, the band shows how quickly and easily they have adapted to modern times, and that ain’t easy for a band that’s been around since the early 80s. The band has managed to retain their characteristic sound while embracing modern influences. The result is an album that feels both familiar and fresh. Honeymoon Suite not only made a comeback with “Alive”, they declared that they are here to stay, alive and kicking as ever. Therefore, “Alive” is not just a title; it’s a declaration that the band’s rock heart is still beating strong.
