As the latest step in their ongoing maturation, the Hanson brothers have developed a social conscience on their fourth studio album, The Walk. That’s not to say that the trio, all now in their 20s, have suddenly become political activists, but songs like “Great Divide,” “Fire on the Mountain” and “Blue Sky” express concern about the state of the world in concise, accessible terms without seeming preachy or whiny. In keeping with the band’s sunny and self-sufficient attitude, the most common emotion expressed in these tunes, despite uncertainty about where things are headed, is hope.
And, really, you have to have hope to weather the derision that Isaac, Taylor and Zac Hanson dealt with in the aftermath of their ’90s teen-pop stardom and come out on the other side as one of the most accomplished pop acts of the last decade. While not quite as exuberant and infectious as 2004’s Underneath, The Walk is undeniably impressive, full of superb hooks, tight musicianship and wonderful harmonies. As ever, Taylor is the best singer, but younger brother Zac comes into his own here, confidently singing lead on a number of tunes.
The group’s love of classic rock n’ roll is still in full effect (most explicitly on “Been There Before,” a tribute to the legends of the genre), but there are also more introspective ballads and some fairly funky numbers. A children’s choir from Mozambique even makes its way onto a few tracks, but don’t worry, this isn’t the brothers’ Graceland. Although with songwriting chops this strong, you get the impression they might be able to pull that off, too.
.............................................
Hanson
The Walk
*** 1/2