I’m going to offer a dissent here: to these ears, this was a big drop off from the first two albums. HS were never a “gritty” band, but whatever edge they had was completely planed off to achieve that slick faux rock sound that U.S. radio was looking for as they fought off the ascendance of hiphop. The Rob Preuss add never made sense to me (though I loved The Spoons); I saw them live when they toured this album (on a bill with Glass Tiger and Frozen Ghost), and even Rob seemed a bit confused what he was doing there. But 100% on board with the Derry Grehan comment: the guy was (is?) a master. If he had made his career in America, every axe fanboy would know his name.
I’m with Derry - I’ve never felt that any of the songs on “The Big Prize” were unworthy of being there. Meanwhile, “Wave Babies” was cringe from the moment of its conception (though “Burning in Love” is neck and neck with “Feel It Again” for my favourite HS track).
Derry still maintains that ‘The Big Prize’ was their best record, and I’d concur.
My guess is that for Rob it was a matter of a gig where he had none. He was not active with Spoons and you may as well get a cheque. He didn’t stay for long.
I’ve heard of these guys but don’t think I’ve ever actually heard their music. But Tina knew “Lethal Weapon” and “Love Changes Everything” and the BTO track. She’s currently blasting (and singing/screaming) “Burning In Love”!
Honeymoon Suite is a band I have to check out more of. Thanks for the intro!
You’ll enjoy them, Alex. Some great tunes!
I’m going to offer a dissent here: to these ears, this was a big drop off from the first two albums. HS were never a “gritty” band, but whatever edge they had was completely planed off to achieve that slick faux rock sound that U.S. radio was looking for as they fought off the ascendance of hiphop. The Rob Preuss add never made sense to me (though I loved The Spoons); I saw them live when they toured this album (on a bill with Glass Tiger and Frozen Ghost), and even Rob seemed a bit confused what he was doing there. But 100% on board with the Derry Grehan comment: the guy was (is?) a master. If he had made his career in America, every axe fanboy would know his name.
Ohh, Wave Babies. Musically interesting, lyrically… has not aged well.
I’m with Derry - I’ve never felt that any of the songs on “The Big Prize” were unworthy of being there. Meanwhile, “Wave Babies” was cringe from the moment of its conception (though “Burning in Love” is neck and neck with “Feel It Again” for my favourite HS track).
Valid points.
Derry still maintains that ‘The Big Prize’ was their best record, and I’d concur.
My guess is that for Rob it was a matter of a gig where he had none. He was not active with Spoons and you may as well get a cheque. He didn’t stay for long.
And they’re still rocking live today! Thanks for the follow 👏
My pleasure 🫡
I’ve heard of these guys but don’t think I’ve ever actually heard their music. But Tina knew “Lethal Weapon” and “Love Changes Everything” and the BTO track. She’s currently blasting (and singing/screaming) “Burning In Love”!
That’s such a great track! If you have time seek out Honeymoon Suite’s version of Looking Out For Number One, bet Tina knows that, too.
Have a good day you two!
Such a great band.
They sure are.