Hanson- The Walk

Genre rock Publisher 3CG Records External Links Official Hanson Website Official 3CG Website

Hanson has graduated from their adolescent, exuberant, pop songs that were made famous in the 90's. Once tagged as a "modern day Jackson Five" these three brothers from Tulsa, OK have proven they are just as capable of producing organic, reflective masterpieces as the next indie artist. To look back and compare their past albums under the Island Def Jam record label is unfair. They were bred into the innocent, carefree group who produced infectious melodies.

The boys have been busy since their split. A tour in 2005, a documentary Strong Enough to Break, and a trip to South Africa in 2006 build to the milestones in their careers. The Walk is their second creation under the independent 3CG Label. "The Walk is the walk of life", Zac Hanson says. "People make decisions to go for dreams, to do something difficult, or they decide to be part of the crowd that watches. You have to make those decisions by yourself." The brothers, unique in personalities, add their subtle influences. Isaac, the eldest, brings the groove. Taylor, the middle brother, forever in search for that next catchy hook contributes a soulful sound. Zac, the youngest, is poetic and is unsurpassed at melody.

The Walk still exudes the trademark energy while bestowing an earthy, accessible quality. "It's the first record in a decade that we made completely from scratch as an indie", Taylor Hanson says. "We've stepped it up a notch creatively; writing songs that connect to really personal experiences and recording them live 'from the floor'." The track "Great Divide" is a great example of this new found creative adventure. A bold electric guitar riffs above the background of an African children's choir. "We can conquer this great divide," the message is overpowering and inspirational. The Hanson brothers collaborated with a children's choir in South Africa. It was released especially for World Aids Day in November.

Another great track is "Been There Before" a romantic tribute to the classic rock influences going back to the roots of rock 'n' roll. "Running Man" and "Go" are co-written by the baby Hanson, Zac. For the first time he is on lead vocals.

Most of you haven't taken Hanson seriously since the last time they got into your head and wouldn't leave. Most of you are reluctant to reopen that portal, but this latest creation begs just one more listen. These boys have severed their ties from their earlier roots and demonstrate that all you need to write good music is experience. You have to admit growing up has allowed them to evolve as singers/songwriters.