Music review: Hanson – 鈥楽tring Theory鈥�
Hard to believe that it鈥檚 been 21 years since Hanson released their debut album with the sugary hit single 鈥淢MMBop.鈥�
Full disclosure, I found myself humming the catchy melody more than a few times when it was introduced on the band鈥檚 1997 debut album 鈥淢iddle of Nowhere.鈥� Isaac, Taylor and Zac Hanson may have started out in the middle of nowhere back in 1992, but they would soon be heard everywhere, becoming teen idols in the process.
In celebration of the trio鈥檚 26-year career, the brothers began to work on a symphonic album that would feature 23 reworked tracks from over the years as part of a two-disc set for fans to enjoy.
For 鈥淪tring Theory,鈥� famed producer David Campbell (Beck鈥檚 father) masterfully arranged the lush orchestrations that transform Hanson鈥檚 power-pop melodies into a sophisticated and fresh vibe that perfectly illustrates the trio鈥檚 maturity and growth.
鈥淩eaching for the Sky (Part 1)鈥� gracefully sets the stage with its motivational message about embracing the call to do something special, no matter what obstacles try to block successful completion.
The uplifting 鈥淛oyful Noise鈥� follows and provides an infectious energy with a timely theme of rejoicing in the opportunities that we are provided and to remain humble and grateful.
鈥淲here鈥檚 the Love鈥� picks up the pace with soaring orchestration combined with fabulous harmonies and a little slice of funk as we are reminded that it is indeed love that makes the world go round.
With lyrics like 鈥淭hese are the songs for the world to sing鈥� from 鈥淒ream It Do It鈥� and 鈥淚 could never be another chip off the block鈥� from 鈥淚 Was Born,鈥� the brothers demonstrate a knack for having a dream and the confidence to see it through in their own unique way.
If you find yourself still wanting more after listening to this latest release, I would suggest two other albums that carry the Hanson charm.
First, there is Hanson鈥檚 2017 holiday album 鈥淔inally It鈥檚 Christmas.鈥� A delightful collection of cheer that will deliver the holiday spirit right to your front door.
Another gem worth a spin is the self-titled 2009 debut by Tinted Windows. Taylor was a member of this special group consisting of Bun E. Carlos of Cheap Trick, Adam Schlesinger from Fountains of Wayne and James Iha of the Smashing Pumpkins. The album is filled with well-constructed melodic pop arrangements possessing catchy pop melodies and slick rock licks.
So this Thanksgiving, indulge yourself in a double helping of turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes and the savory sounds of Hanson.
Napping is optional.
Clint Rhodes is the 缅北禁地 music reviewer. He can be reached at clinton43@me.com.