Hanson digs deeper for fun
Hanson CD Review, 'Underneath Acoustic'
By STEPHANIE LOWERY
Rufus King High School
Last Updated: Oct. 5, 2003

It's been six years since the three longhaired lads from Tulsa, Okla., brought us their bubble-gum hit "MMMBop." If you haven't heard by now, Isaac, Taylor and Zac Hanson are back.

And they don't have long hair anymore.

In August, Hanson officially released, "Underneath Acoustic," a live, sneak preview CD to their upcoming album, "Underneath." It's not just their hair that's different, either; they've got a great new sound that's much different from their perceivably pop sound.

Though their 2000 studio album, "This Time Around," was basically overlooked by critics and radio stations alike, take my advice: Don't shove this album aside.

It may be hard to believe, but Hanson is no longer your typical boy band. The sound of this new album can be best described as soulful, gritty, fun and rockin'. Hanson once again proves it's musically talented beyond its years. The boys are still writing, producing and playing their own music. Each song is something fresh, something fun, and something inspiring.

The most noteworthy song on the album is the sixth track, "Penny and Me," which was first performed publicly last month on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." The lyrics are not only fun, but also magical. Closing your eyes during this song is recommended, as the lyrics speak to you and make you feel good about the little pleasures of life. The acoustic sound of this song is beautiful, and their voices once again complement one another brilliantly.

Another commendable song on the album is the hand-clappin', fun love song, "Love Somebody to Know." The harmonies and the high notes hit by the three brothers are amazing and prove they are more than just a one-hit wonder. It's a great song to turn up loud and sing along to that reminds us that they are still young adults and are having a good time.

So Isaac's almost 23-years-old, Taylor's married, and Zac's a few inches taller. They're still as lovable as they were six years ago, just older and more mature. And as far as talent goes, they're like a fine wine - they just keep getting better over the years.

So while you may not want to admit that you own Hanson's first release "Middle of Nowhere," "Underneath Acoustic" is one you won't be embarrassed to tell your friends about.

"Underneath Acoustic" is only available on the group's Web site, www.hanson.net, for $8.99.

From the Oct. 6, 2003 editions of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

original article

Thanks to ILavHanson for finding this one!