What makes The Big Prize by Honeymoon Suite notable?

The Big Prize reached No. 10 on the Canadian Albums Chart and produced hit singles like Feel It Again, which became one of the band's signature songs. The album solidified Honeymoon Suite's place in the Canadian rock scene during the 1980s and showcased their knack for catchy hooks and radio-ready tracks. Released in January 1986, The Big Prize was Honeymoon Suite's second studio album, following their self-titled debut which had established them as a prominent force in Canadian rock. At this point in their career, the band was looking to build on the commercial success of their first album, exploring more polished production and songwriting techniques.

Who is The Big Prize for?

The Big Prize works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sing-alongs, an anthemic road trip soundtrack and uplifting melodies for gatherings.

How many songs are on The Big Prize?

The Big Prize has 10 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

The Big Prize

Honeymoon Suite · 1986

44 min · 10 tracks · hard rock

Dynamic guitar-driven melodies blend with anthemic choruses, capturing the essence of mid-80s hard rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Feel It Again — This track stands out with its infectious chorus and memorable guitar riffs, embodying the band's ability to create radio-friendly rock anthems that resonate with fans.
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Bad Attitude — Opening with a gritty edge, this song showcases the band's harder rock influences while maintaining melodic sensibilities, making it a quintessential track from the album.
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Wounded — With its introspective lyrics and emotional delivery, Wounded highlights the band's lyrical depth while balancing powerful instrumentation against a softer vocal performance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production typical of mid-80s hard rock but lacks standout depth or innovation.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with driving guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, while the second half introduces slower ballads that create a contrast.
Several tracks utilize layered harmonies in the choruses, enhancing the melodic impact and creating a fuller sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
an anthemic road trip soundtrack
uplifting melodies for gatherings
emotional lyrics for connection

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced music
seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1986, The Big Prize was Honeymoon Suite's second studio album, following their self-titled debut which had established them as a prominent force in Canadian rock. At this point in their career, the band was looking to build on the commercial success of their first album, exploring more polished production and songwriting techniques.
Stylistic neighbors: Bryan Adams· Def Leppard· Night Ranger