Hanson - This Time Around
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Free Music Notes for This Time Around
Free Music Review: If youre not a Hanson fan..
Hit: 5 Stars
....this is the album that will change your mind. First off, the music is better than ever. Ike is great, as always, and for those who don't care for high voices, it isn't an issue anymore, as both Taylor and Zac have got their older voices. Listening to this, you might think `You'd never know it was Hanson', unless you're well, well acquainted with the way they all sing. And, of course, the new haircuts are a definite improvement. I could go on and on about how cute Ike and Taylor's haircuts are, and how Zac's hair is longer than ever, having apparently refused to let anyone near it, but I do believe I was here to review the music, not the haircuts. So here are my ruminations on the album, This Time Around. Enjoy!
You Never Know-I love the vocals in the intro! The boys are older, but no less enthusiastic, and this is a great way to start off the new cd. Very catchy.
If Only-My favourite part of this is when the music stops completely, and then Taylor says `Yeah!' and then the music starts up again. And actually, if you listen to this album, you'll find that it's sprinkled liberally with `Yeah!'s throughout.
This Time Around-`You can't say/I didn't give it/I won't wait/another minute/We're on our way/this time around/And we won't go down...' There's just something about a bunch of guys with great harmonies, singing that they won't go down, that gives me this adrenaline rush. All levity aside, however, this is truly a great song. One of the absolute best (and maybe the best) on the album. The closest I can figure, this song is about getting out there and making a difference, fighting for someone you love, and never giving up, no matter what. I cannot say enough good things about this track.
Runaway Run-Love the melody, the rhythm, the sound.
Dying To Be Alive-Although I don't think I could ever actually dislike any Hanson song, it took me a couple of listenings to really warm up to this one. And now I really like it. It's a really good song. I've heard people scoff at the lyrics of this one, and that proves my theory that, no matter how great it is, someone can take a lyric, and point it out as being trite, unoriginal, and downright painful. Bottom line: Never, ever, pay attention when someone stars coughing at a lyric.
Save Me-At the risk of sounding like a teenybopper blonde with a bad crush, I say that this is a `falling' song; the kind one just falls into. Absolutely love the way Taylor sings the high notes. Also, if you listen carefully, you'll hear these cute sound effects that sound a lot like someone tapping on a milk jug!
Can't Stop-Guaranteed to get you moving. And, like In The City, this is a jumping-up-and-down-really-enthusiastically song. The best part of this is the bridge. It is the coolest bridge you ever heard! Wish I could say more, but that would ruin it, and besides, I couldn't do it justice. On the Internet, no one can hear you sing.
Wish That I Was There-I listened to this, and all I could think was "How can this be Zac singing lead? How? *How*?!" I know that this record (pardon me, cd-I listen to a lot of oldies) was made years after Middle of Nowhere, and he was around fifteen in this album, but still! Zac is supposed to be the cute little one with the enthusiastic high voice, who sings Man From Milwaukee! Now that I have gotten over the shock (mostly), I can appreciate Zac's new voice. It's very, very nice, dark and solid-sounding.
Love Song-Wow. Wow. Wow. Ike is *good*, man! As with Taylor, I absolutely love the way Ike does the high notes. And this is really one of the sweetest songs one could ever hope to hear. Fully deserving of its title.
Sure About It-Time was, all I would have had to say was this was a cute song, but no longer. It is a cute song, but that's not all. The melody is kind of complicated, but oh so satisfying once you have mastered it, and can remember it all!
Hand In Hand-Something to remember: if Ike sings lead (and he does in this song), it is bound to be good. And this is. As my sister likes to describe this song, `It starts out sad and ends up kind of bitter-sad.'
In The City-`You stand there trying to look so sweet/Every word you say is so full of deceit...' I listen to the lyrics, and think "Ooh. Ouch!" In the best sense. I almost dread to think what antics Taylor gets up to when they sing this one live. It took some time, but this is now one of my favourite tracks. Oh, and I like the little sound effects throughout the song. Sound effects are something Hanson seems very fond of.
A Song To Sing- I'm looking for a song to sing/I'm looking for a friend to borrow/I'm looking for my radio/so I might find a heart to follow....'This is The Perfect Song, the perfect way to end the album. A very simple song, with just the piano, the beautiful harmonies, and what I can honestly describe as some of the best lyrics I have ever heard. Words cannot do this song justice, you'll have to hear this or yourself.
Even though every last song on this album is great, none of them went anywhere on the charts, just because they were by Hanson. I hate pop culture....
Free Music Review: I love this album!
Hit: 5 Stars
This time around may not have sold anywhere near the number of copies that the monster hit MON did, but that does not suffice to prove that is not just as good. You'll find just as much charm on this, as on any other of Hanson's albums! It doesn't matter if it is an indie Boomerang cd or their newest album, The Walk. The fact of the matter is Hanson has an undeniable charisma, excellent musicianship and skills, and an appreciable sense of modesty which makes their music suited to almost anyone! It really all boils down to individual tastes at that point, though... They began as a pop band, and continued on in true mmmbop fashion, up until only recently when they decided to change to rock. Yeah, they do still maintain a pop-ish sound, reminiscent of their roots, but as surely as they keep writing and performing, they'll only keep on upping their ante in terms of harder sound! They aren't the same boys you knew back in '97, nor has their music remained the same! You'll be in for somewhat of a shock if you buy this having only heard what MON brings to the table! Check out This Time Around and if you don't like it, may all fingers point at me. Personally though, I obviously wouldn't have recommended it...had I not already played it till' it scratched! LOL
My review of the songs:
You Never Know:
A great starting song! It reminds people not to judge. The lyrics to this song give off a bit of a frustrated vibe. They are assertive and questioning.
* If Only:
This is one of my most favorite tracks. Listen and the reason shall be revealed! I can never resist singing along with the catchy lyrics. There is an air of sorrow in the way Taylor sings this song and you'll find yourself sympathizing with him. It expresses a strong yearning to be wanted and loved. We all can relate!
This Time Around:
This song has an unconquerable attitude. But there is also no doubt that it expresses bitter anger too! Though sad, the lyrics are worth reading and this is actually one of the album's strongest tracks. Snippet: It's getting colder in this ditch where I lie. I'm feeling older and I'm wondering why. I heard they told her it was tell and live or die. I didn't know her but I know why she lied. I didn't know her but I know why she died. You can't say I didn't give it! I won't wait another minute! We're on our way this time around! And we won't go down!
* Runaway Run: You may as well just label me a silly nilly when this song comes on because I can not keep myself from wearing a stupid grin! The tune is sweet, the instrumentation is clear and great, and the message is of a bittersweet, unrequited love. What a snare this is to me!
Save Me:
The message is pretty much drawn out for you. It sounds like an unheard plea to be noticed and appreciated. I get the impression it could also be about a couple who's found discord amongst their relationship.
Dying To Be Alive:
The message this song seems to want to convey is: don't settle for less in life. When life is a sourpuss and gives you lemons, make sweet lemonade! Things will get hard but keep your eyes on the prize, work hard, and you'll pull through! A real upper when you're in a slump!
Can't Stop:
Seems to be about an infatuation with someone. Gets a little repetitive midway through but other than that it is entertaining and enjoyable. The drumming on this track is awesome!
* Wish I Was There:
This is the song they chose for Zac to lead on. What a voice he has! The lyrics to this song are really great. A song about pure and innocent love.
Love Song:
Isaac sings lead for Love Song. Smiles are always brought to my face when I listen to this. Possibly the most laid back song on this album, other than A Song To Sing.
* Sure About It:
This song reels me in hook line and sinker! It gets me vamped up and ready to tap my feet in rythm to it's irresistible beat. This one is a real energizer!
Hand In Hand:
I've seen Hanson in concert a few times and this song really stuck out to me because of the way Isaac described it. It is about how one of his girlfriends cheated on him. It really struck a chord in me to know that someone could do that to such a nice guy! But he was too good for her, even from the beginning.
* In The City:
Rock driven and edgy at it's best, In The City gives off taunting and seductive vibes. Maybe even a bit of a "Hell, if I care!" flare at times. I really love it when Hanson puts out songs like this!
A Song To Sing:
Only the guys' voices and the piano can be heard on this laid back track. Despite being laid back this song doesn't let your emotions rest so easily; it is rather sad. Taylor's playing on the piano is at it's best here: smooth yet with a crisp freshness to it!
Free Music Review: Very unique. No one sounds like Hanson. that's for sure.
Hit: 5 Stars
1. You Never Know - Sound: Has a very gruff sound to it. By the end of this song, you will have realized that they have definitely matured. Lyrical content: I actually think this is a secret message to the fans who like to spread rumors about the band. I hope they got the hint! The song is about not really knowing someone, but thinking you do. My rating: 3/52. If Only - Sound: This is the MMMBop of the album (not to mention it is also track number 2.). I assume that they thought they could almost "re-create" the MMMBop days by releasing this song as the second single. Because hey, it's poppy, it's catchy... But is it good? Definitely better than MMMBop. The harmonica gets annoying, but their voices and the guitar make up for it. Lyrical content: Another love song. Boring! Overall rating: 3/5
3. This Time Around - One of the more serious songs on the album. This is a really smooth, well written song that shows that they are not mindless fools. The piano sounds great, and I promise you won't cringe at any point of this song. It's simply beautiful. My rating: 5/5
4. Runaway Run - This is Hanson's idea of rough rock. Ask any Hanson fan "What is the song by Hanson that has a rock sound to it?" and they will say either this song, or 'In the City.' Well, not that I'm trying to be a party pooper, but I don't see this as rock. It's pop-rock. Yet it's still good. Who said pop can't be good? The guitar stands out compared to the rest of the instruments, giving it a heavier sound. Mid-tempo. My rating: 4/5
5. Save Me - A love song about begging someone to come back to you. I'd give it a perfect score on the sound alone. It's powerful. 5/5
6. Dying to Be Alive - The MOST powerful song on this album. Makes you think about life and encourages you to do what you need to do "before it's too late". 5/5
7. Can't Stop - The lyrics are very simple. That annoys me, but the song is pretty jumpy and the part in the middle will have you shaking your booty! 3/5
8. Wish That I Was There - A change in sound, after listening to other songs on the album. This song is sung by Zac, who has a much deeper voice than the other two. Though the chorus "I Wish That I Was There" is repeated VERY often, it never gets old... until the end, that is. The lyrics are quite simple, which makes me cringe a little, but it has a nice sound overall. When you get sick of hearing Isaac and Taylor's voices, switch to this track. 4/5
9. Love Song - The best song I have heard sung by Isaac. He has such a smooth voice. Sings about how he wishes "someone would have told him before" about how hard love is. I never skip this one. 5/5
10. Sure About It - Hanson's attempt to rebel lyrically. They use the word cocaine! The horror! ;) No but seriously- Hanson plays this song acoustic when they play it live. Has a nice poppy sound. Something to bob your head to. 4/5
11. Hand in Hand - You just have to hear this one. It makes you want to dance (and no kids, I don't mean in a Backstreet boy-song type way) Towards the end, this song gets pretty powerful. Very up-tempo. My rating: 5/5
12. In the City - Again, the harmonica comes in. If you ever attend a Hanson concert, when this song starts, Taylor will move away from his keyboard and try to get the crowd jumping to the song. I'm not jumping. Is there something wrong with me? Nah. It's just missing something. Mid-tempo song. My rating: 2/5
13. Song to Sing - Most bands save the last track for a real tear-jerker. Well, this album is no different. It's about feeling hopeless. The lyrics will touch you. Lyrics like "It's too late to go home all alone" makes you feel like a child inside. Depressing, yet priceless. Simply beautiful. 5/5
Should you buy it? Heck yeah, you should. It's rare that you find a cd with more than one good song on it these days and this album beats that by far.
Free Music Review: Oh My God, Their BACK again!
Hit: 5 Stars
Did I think I was going to be a Hanson fan again after Middle Of Nowhere? Did I think it would get any better? No. Those where the questions I always asked myself when I was walking through Waves Music when I saw "This Time Around" sitting there on the shelves May 9, 2000. I picked it up, scanning the names, and thought, "What the heck? Let's give them a listen." I got home, and I couldn't stop playing it! This cd is the best that I have heard in a while, and I have over 200 cds! I listen to it so much, and I'm on my third copy. This is the only one I had to buy more than once so I wouldn't miss hearing them again. All songs are unique, and let me tell you why they are so good: You Never Know~It sounds like an almost sixties song. The words are right on target with what Taylor sings, and when you listen to it, you can't help but sing along to the background vocals too. If Only~The only real pop-ish song on the album. It brings back memories of MMMBop, and it's awesome. It's more rockier though, than what you would think. The video makes it even better. This Time Around~This song is deep. When would you buy a cd from a bunch of teenagers and know that they wrote a song about fighting, war, and dying? Never. Not until Hanson came along. Runaway Run~One of my absolute favorite songs ever. It's such a sweet song, more about heartbreak seeing someone you love with someone else, yet, the bridge seems to say otherwise. More like, "I'm gonna always be there for you" and kinda says, "STALKER!" on it. :) Save Me~Taylor Hanson couldn't sing any better with this song. I love it. If I ever broke up with my boyfriend, he should sing this song to me. I'd take him back like that. The bridge makes me speechless every time I hear it. It's so sweet. Dying To Be Alive~This song is deep, too. Hanson has definately matured with this album, and this song proves it. They brought in a gospel choir, and it was the right choice. I love this song. Can't Stop~Ah, the fun song. This song is so great to dance around the house to. Even Isaac going, Tick tock, tick tock goes the clock, not a second passes, I can't stop makes me want to join in and harmonize. Wish That I Was There~Zac's lead song. This, is my favorite. A simple song with great meaning. For being only 15, this boy has major talent. I love his voice. It's raspy and sweet. The way I like it! Love Song~Awesome. There are no words to describe it. Sure About It~Sounds funky, and the second verse sound like Taylor's southern accent got the best of him. Hand In Hand~The cheater song/ex-love song. Isaac has lead on this, as well as Love Song. I love this song, and when he and Taylor sing it together, I get chills. In The City~The "Uh-oh, my boyfriend just caught be cheating on him" song. Taylor rocks out with his vocals, while Isaac sings back up on the "I'm gonna ask you once again, you gotta tell me once again: Do you love me?" part. A great song to just forget all your problems to. A Song To Sing~This song makes me get goosebumps every time I hear it. And when I heard them sing this live in Pittsburgh in September, I cried. Taylor puts so much feeling behind his part in vocals that it makes you so sad. They have a thing with sad songs, and this one, has definately been one of them. Hanson is one of the most talented group of guys that I have heard. They totally put their heart and soul into their music, and being 20, 18, and 15, they definately show that they are back and here to stay!Free Music Review: Amazing sophomore album
Hit: 5 Stars
Everyone remembers Hanson for their infectious summer-of-'97 hit MMMBop. The brothers from Tulsa went on tour supporting their debut album Middle Of Nowhere and while on the road they wrote many of the tracks on their new disc This Time Around released May 9th. The boys don't disappoint with thirteen tracks that are all worthy of some attention. The new album opens with easily the worst twenty seconds of the entire disc. The Santana-esque groove of the opening track "Never Know" and the horrid sound effects at the beginning are completely unnecessary and serve only to make the listener skip the first track. The song does manage to turn out alright once it gets flowing. The following cluster of songs is where any potential hits lay. The second song through the tenth song are all superb tracks worthy of radio play. All of them could be big hits. "If Only" is already number one in Spain, where it has become a huge favorite on popular radio. The upbeat song deals with a crush and Blues Traveler's John Popper lends his prowess on the harmonica to create a funky blend of pop/rock. The thoughtful "Dying To Be Alive" is an excellent track except for the blatant "Lean On Me" rip-off in the first bar of the chorus. "Can't Stop" and "Runaway Run" add some older sounding guitar influences to the album. Both deal with, somehow not surprisingly, crushes, even to the point of obsession in "Can't Stop." Hanson proves that this album is an excellent piece of work on two tracks near the end of the album. "Sure About It" is a mid-tempo song dealing with indecision and some heavier issues. Midway through the song Taylor croons, "Do you see the man with the cocaine load / It's on sale for the price of your soul / And the man with the long trench coat / Wish I could hide in a big black hole / I'd sell you all your pain ten-fold / And you're crawling down a long, wrong road." The trench coat imagery is an obvious response to the Columbine tragedy of last year. The song mixes some catchy guitar with some more than interestingly sung lyrics. The album closes with the outwardly pensive "A Song to Sing." The lyrics deal with an identity and isolation crisis and trying to find a way out. Taylor proves that his pipes are for real and that he has quite a bit of soul in him in this song. The harmonies in the chorus are wonderful and the song leaves a lasting impression on the listener. The chorus of, "I'm looking for a song to sing / I'm looking for a friend to borrow / I'm looking for my radio / So that I might find a heart to follow..." shows the brothers lyrical as well as musical maturity. Hanson unfortunately will never leave the shadow cast by "MMMBop," but with This Time Around the have proven that they aren't just one hit wonders or the creation of some songwriters more than willing to help the brothers. All thirteen tracks were written by the three brothers alone and they have shown maturity in every sense of the word. The music shows the integration of rock, pop, and even some soul on songs like "Save Me" and "A Song to Sing." The brothers should be taken seriously with this effort, and the credibility they will gain as musicians is well deserved.