When they first hit in 1997 with “MMMBop,” I remember Hanson being dismissed by my music intelligentsia friends as some kind of put-up job, a prefab kiddie novelty act. Thing is, it wasn’t true. At all. The brothers Hanson – Taylor, Isaac and Zac – were legit talented, their shiny, radio-friendly sound underpinned by a rich sense of Chicago R&B rhythm and Gospel-inflected harmony. (It’s fun trying to write in hipster-reviewer speak, init? Hey, I’ve been telling you for years I ain’t no reviewer.)
Now, nearly two decades on, they’re better than ever. Let’s kick today’s #SVR with a recent acoustic performance of that hit, one that strips down to the naked essence of a worthy pop gem.
Here’s the lads are riffing on Blues Brothers. One of the most infectious tunes I’ve heard in years. Admit it – you wish you were in this video.
From 2010, “Give a Little.” Yeah, they an write a hook.
We’ll close with “Get the Girl Back” from 2013’s Anthem. A little neo-Soul, anybody?
Happy Saturday, folks.