While opening my mail I found this Hanson best of and I almost fell from my chair. I thought at first it was a joke from somebody who hated me—or this site—until I realized it came from the PR department of a music label.

Featuring a Hanson CD here is as relevant as having good music played on KROQ. But listening to my sense of professionalism, I decided to give it a spin, at least out of respect to whom ever took the time to send this to me.

Apparently since growing up, Hanson has turned Indie. But that wasn't the last of my surprises. Almost chocking on my pretzel, I discovered the opener was a cover of Radiohead's "Optimistic", followed later on by another remake, this time U2's "In a little while". I assume Hanson thinks it's a great way to find respect and establish they're not teenyboppers anymore, but neither this opportunistic twist will rally fans of cool music, nor will it ring a bell for Hanson's core fans.

As for the rest, let's be frank, it doesn't sound too bad, leaning toward a soft American-guitar driven indie rock with George Michael-like vocals—they even have a song called "Rock 'N' Roll Razorblade" to signal to you they changed and their anthem "MmmBop" gets a rockier treatment.

Apparently there are also a couple of songs and videos as bonuses, but you will excuse me for not having watched them.

Hanson will probably keep appealing to their fans, girls who grew up with them, and to tell you the truth, I don't see here less rock legitimacy than in—let's say—Avril Lavigne's CDs.

  Ed Dantes


     Backstage Passes
     Make Beats
     Custom Socks