Billboard Review

                                      of "This Time Around" single
 

                             HANSON This Time Around (3:55)

                             Producers: Stephen Lironi, Hanson
                             Writers: I. Hanson, T. Hanson, Z. Hanson
                             Publisher: Jam'N'Bread Music, ASCAP
                             Island 15034 (CD promo)

                             Perhaps you thought you wouldn't be hearing this name again, but Hanson is not only back, it has wisely redefined itself. While the hooks are still firmly in place, the overall sound now is much more rock-oriented, and it's damn credible. You may recall that these guys already wrote their songs and played most of the instruments on their 1997 major-label debut, "Middle Of Nowhere." You may also remember
                             that middle child Taylor showed incredible promise with a voice that simply cooked in a live setting. Wisely, this mature concoction cuts a clear path to an older audience, giving it a solid chance at adult top 40 in addition to its base at mainstream pop. The song, which the guys
                             wrote and co-produced, opens as a ballad, with a piano intro that resembles "Desperado," then gradually picks up steam until it bursts into a rousing midtempo chorus that will simply make your mouth drop open. Taylor's vocals are magnificent, at once soulful and full of depth,
                             while the instrumentation is meaty, creative and fulfilling. It's time to disregard any preconceived notions about this act and accept the fact that Hanson has the enduring talent and confidence to reach its greatest heights yet with this enlightening single.

Thanks to Dido for the use of this picture.