One of my favorite moments from VH1’s I Love the ’90s series (which I would link to here if Viacom hadn’t made YouTube take down all its clips) was when Scott Ian of Anthrax refused to rip on the brothers Hanson — Isaac, Taylor, and Zac— because they at least played their own instruments. Ten years after "MMMBop," the guys are doing more than that. They are, brace for it, kind of rocking.
At a packed "preview show" for their fourth studio album, The Walk (due May 22 stateside), the brothers took the stage of NYC’s Supper Club to deafening screams. Cliché, but true. The feedback that momentarily halted the show later in the hour and 40-minute set was only slightly more painful. (Reading Taylor’s lips when he asked "Where the f— is it?" while everyone searched for the cause, however, was enjoyable.)
Because you know you care: Taylor (pictured,right), in particularly fine hair form, was workin’ skinny black jeans and, of course, a scarf (which that boy can pull off). Isaac (left) was dapper in a black dress shirt and pin-striped vest. (Yes, he came into his own.) And "Little Zac" (center) was ultra laid back in a T-shirt — and a warm, constant grin. I think the only time he wasn’t smiling was during the encore, Cat Stevens’ "Peace Train." Maybe because Taylor rode it a little too long?
The new album? Yes. Let’s get to it. Hard to tell which of the tunes were actually new — since some serious fans sang along to everything — but here’s what I could decipher: the first single off the indie release will be the mature ballad "Go." And for the first time, Zac sings lead! Here’s the video. Have a listen. And admit that the guys know how to write a chorus. And harmonize. And that Taylor’s piano sounds pretty. The middle Hanson took back the mic on the love-will-keep-us-together-themed "Georgia", while Isaac did the honors on "Watch Over Me."
Though last night’s performance featured several guests (including arecurring children’s choir), that song starred the evening’s biggestone: Andrew W.K. Yes, that Andrew W.K. Not sure why he was tickling the ivories, but he didn’t appear forced. Other memorable new tunes included the Motown-vibed "Been There Before" and the funky "Blue Sky". (We had to wait for the cover of "Feeling Alright" to see Isaac dance like James Brown though).
As for the real oldies but goodies, the crowd went apes— for "MMMBop" (watch the actual performance here).Taylor let the crowd sing the first half of the song — such a smartboy. (Is it wrong that I’m calling him a boy when he’s married withthree children?) I was happy to hear the big single from their lastalbum, "Penny & Me",which is seriously a great song. As is "Strong Enough to Break" (thetitle of the documentary that captured the making of that record andtheir break from their prior label), and the pop-as-pop-can-be "Lost Without Each Other."That song always makes me dance in the comfort of my home, andapparently my body is conditioned. Three seconds into the tune Irealized that I was bouncing, and turned to my +1 Karen and said,"Oh my God, I just did that." She reminded me that I was "among friends"and allowed me to continue.
To recap, in a slightly clearer version: Enjoy Hanson, PopWatchers. You’ve never needed our permission, but you’ve got it.
Comments (1-30) of 56 Add your comment
Never thought i’d EVER consider Hanson for anything, but stranger things have happened, i guess..
My friend and I were in the car and we hadn’t seen each other in years. She says, hear, listen to this and refused to tell me who it was, which I knew meant it had to be something I used to hate.
Ended up being the third Hanson album and admittedly, it was pretty solid.
Those fans that knew all the words? A fair bit of them ordered the album from Japan, since it’s been released there. We’re a dedicated bunch, us Hanson fans.
I’ve been a Hanson fan since the beginning. Although I don’t have the last album. Their christmas album is my all time favorite. I like ‘Go’. Looking forward to the new album.
These guys are so intelligent. In addition to writing, recording and producing their music in their own studio, they own their record label, 3CG, consequently filmed a documentary, and debuted at # 1 on the Billboard indy charts. Good work, guys!
they’ve really grown up in the 10 years in the business. i’m ridiculously proud of where they’ve been, and where they’re going
keep up the good work, oklahoma.
For a decade i have followed this band and watch them grow. I’m so very proud of them and all that they have acomplished over they years. I had a chance to see them in Allentown, PA on one of their few preview dates. They were absolutely amazing as always. Everyone should really give “The Walk” a listen when it hits the states May 22. Hanson…keep rockin.
Hanson? Wait a minute… I had no idea they were still playing music. and the one is married with kids? There goes my 4th grade fantasy. I might have to check out their new stuff, I am more than curious.
I was at this show, and even made it to front row. I have to admit it was one of the better Hanson shows I’ve been to & the set list kicked ass.
OMG I didn’t realize Hanson still had a crazy following. My friends and I were planning to drunkenly go to the New Haven show for some nostalgia until we realized it cost $25. Apparently, however, to some girls (who could have been no older than 6 when MMMBop came out) Hanson was worth sitting out in the freezing rain for over 24 hours so they could get to the front of the tiny venue they were playing. It was completely surreal. I mean HANSON? What? Is there something I am missing?
I attended this show by force and was shocked by the performance. They’re no longer the annoying roller blading adolescent’s we all not so fondly remember. And you know what? They kick ass now. Anyone who even mildly enjoyed Mmmbop should check into what these guys are up to now. And by simply attending a show I got more looks from girls then I have in awhile. If I hadn’t been with my girlfriend I would have been collecting numbers. Not only are Hanson now a better band then I ever thought they’d be, they have some foxy fans.
Hanson has always been great…their songs are melodic and catchy, they can sing, they play instruments, they’re cute…what more could you ask for?
I am a 21 year old male. Hanson’s MMMBop (the album, not just the song) is incredible. I just realized that this past year. So is the Backstreet Boys’ self-titled debut. I was washing dishes to my sister’s copy the other night and it was blowing my mind how phenomenal it is as a pop record. “Boy bands” don’t equal suck. Spread the word.
I’m going to sound like a total dork but “Go” isn’t the first time Zac sings lead for the band. He sang lead in “Lucy” on the Middle of Nowhere album. I’m looking forward to their new album, it sounds great.
Hanson is amazing. The new album is awesome (Japanese import). It’s about time that they get some well-deserved recognition and respect.
There is life after teendom. Hanson sounds great! All of them look good. Time has been real kind to them.
As a Hanson fan who is not quite rabid enough to A. go from Chicago to NYC for a preview show or B. pay out the yin-yang for an import of a CD I can wait two more months for (sorry, diapers are #1 on my current budget): THANK YOU, Mandi, for your wonderful review of their NYC preview show. As soon as I get home from work, I’ll be headed to YouTube.
Okay, now I feel old. Thanks!!!
It’s fantastic to see some Hanson love in Popwatch!
I attended three of the preview shows, and I have been an avid Hanson fan since I was 12 (yeah, us campers were mostly about 12 when Middle of Nowhere was released) and I even Have a Hanson tattoo to prove it. It is nice to hear that others are beginning to see just how much talent these guys have.
They are truly incredible musicians and anyone who is unwilling to give them the chance to move on from MMMBop is missing out on some incredible music!
I’m one of the crazies – though not quite as crazy as the ones who had been there for three days! – and I have to say, they’ve been rockin’ since the beginning and it gets better with every record. It’s good to see Hanson get some of the props they deserve so much.
hello
hanson are the best!! i hope they would come one day to Poland:) kissings:)
IM JUST HOPPING THAT THEY’LL CAME TO CHILE, OR ARGENTINA…I’M DYING TO SEE THEM AGAIN IN LATIN AMERICA…LOVE U GUYS…U ROCK SO HARD…
FANSON SINCE EVER…
FROM CHILE WITH LOVE
Nicol Mendoza Yáñez
I grew up with Hanson’s music and it’s always been a HUGE part of my life. I’ve been to many concerts and meet and greets, along with the rare occurances that I’ve met them on my own time. The Supper Club concert was amaazing!! I flew to NYC from Florida for a day just to see them. The concert was sold out even after handing out 100 more ticets. All of them are so talented and bright and they definately don’t get the recognition they deserve. But their fan base will always be here, no matter where they are in the world. The Music Live guys!! Now and forever!! x0×0x0
<3 Laci D.
hope to see them in Philippines…
hanson are always my idols!!!!thank u for growing up with me…
best wishes for you!!!!!xxxxxxx
I’m excited that Hanson is making their comeback. I agreed with your article, the only thing I didn’t agree with, though, is when you said Zac sings his first lead…he’s sang leads before in concerts, lol. Wish That I Was There, The Walk, Man From Millwaukee…
They’re the best band, by far, and not afraid to take their music to the upmost limit! AND, surprisingly, one has to be very brave to attend their concerts…it’s worse than a mosh pit at times. People don’t believe me when I say that, so those of you laughing right now at my comment, don’t say I didn’t warn you when you go.
HAPPY HANSON DAY!
<3,
XOXO
Dude, these guys r really good….actually their last album is pretty amazing…recomended!
hey, I’ve never thought they’d record something good as The Walk is
I used to be a Hanson fan, but untill 2003… I had enaough then. But now, after some tunes I heard, I’d say that my fascination is comming back again 
I’m from Poland so guys aren’t very popular here now. But I hope, they’ll do something to change it. Hanson rox, forever in my life
god i love this band. http://www.littlepennylane.com