Artist: Hanson
Album:Underneath
Label: 3CG Records
Rating:
Reviewer: Julie Wagoner

This review is dedicated to all of the true fans who have proudly supported Hanson from day one. If it wasn't for a "fanson" (yes it is an actual word now, check your urban dictionary!), I probably wouldn't have been updated frequently on each and every single project the boys have worked on. And, that means I would have missed out on another great album created by the magnificent trio that is Hanson.

It's been about four years since we've had a fresh, brand new Hanson disc placed into our cd players. That is a really long time. Some of you probably thought the group broke up for good. After all, we have watched several boy bands who have taken a break to focus on solo projects. It certainly wouldn't be out of the question considering the fact that one of the boys is now a husband and father. But, that's where Hanson breaks the mold. When most bands or artists leave a label, they are in search of another major label to offer them a better deal in terms of cash. When Hanson left Island Records, they took their over complete control of their career by creating their own record label, 3CG Records. They couldn't have made a better decision.

Instead of worrying about how they'd promote their new grown up image or coming up with the best producers to create the entire album, Hanson focused primarily on upgrading their style of music to suit their personal tastes while simultaneously proving to the world that time is on their side. As years go by, the trio only gets better and better. I've caught several friends, who are typically not Hanson fans, agreeing that they like the new single, Penny and Me. Shocking? Yes, I know. The masses are finally giving the guys a chance. It's time for all to see what Hanson is all about. Let's get started.

First, you actually have two choices when it comes to new album, Underneath. You can go to your store and buy the basic album. Or, you could log on to www.hanson.net to buy the acoustic cd. I'm reviewing the basic cd, but I'm planning on buying the acoustic cd after my experience listening to the regular version. The acoustic album has fewer tracks but the guys are great live so I doubt you will find yourself disappointed.

When I first listened to the album, I wasn't overly impressed. I figured this album had potential but deserved a few more spins. As I listened more and more, I began to see what was so great about this album. There's a lot to take in with this album. You will find that the lyrics are much more emotional than ever before. The content of the lyrics aren't too far from what we've heard before from Hanson. You'll hear about the joys of being in love, confidence, longing, and "Misery." But, one song in particular, "Broken Angel" strikes me as overwhelming to listen to. With the simplicity of the piano leading into Zac's surprisingly powerful vocals (do you guys remember Lucy on Middle of Nowhere? He's come a long way!), it's hard to avoid getting emotional over lyrics including, "Little one's broken lying on the ground. Trying to get up till his last breath out. Wings are strewn everywhere. There's blood all around cause even angels die but that light just fades. It's all so sad, but he'd be so proud." Although "Broken Angel" plays off your emotions the most, you will encounter a few other songs such as "Believe" and "Underneath" to offer a slower pace to balance with the bouncy songs found on the album.

If lyrics aren't much of a big deal to you, maybe you will find comfort in knowing the guys put much more effort into making the instruments known. Sometimes, you may hear the vocals often fade into the intense instrumental performance. Don't be surprised if you get lost in the music. I often find that "Dancin in the Wind" provides a classic rock appeal by serving up a combination of heavy guitar and drum beats while "Crazy Beautiful" will satisfy your craving for a blasting horn section. And for those who really aren't concerned about lyrics or instruments, you will find yourself jumping on your bed while listening to the uplifting, "Lost Without Each Other," and, "Get Up and Go." To sum things up, give these guys a chance. You're bound to find a song on here that will move you.