For all the music critics who bemoan the lack of artistic merit that goes with being a pre-packaged and formulated creation, (a boy band, if you will), the New Kids on the Block are back and better than ever to scoff at that notion.
The New Kids, much like their late 80s/early 90s contemporaries, New Edition, were the products of a lone record mogul’s singular vision. The name of this mogul was Maurice Starr and his foresight prompted him to find the most unique and talented collection of white teenagers around and harness that talent into the form of hook heavy, danceable (and for lack of a better term), bubble gum pop music.
The New Kids were an astounding success, admired by an entire world full of teenagers (females, for the most part). The New Kids laid the foundation; they were the precedent for the N’Syncs, Backstreet Boys, and Jonas Brothers to come. They were originals; Hanging Tough put the boy band phenomenon in motion.
The new album entitled The Block showcases what separates The New Kids from their contemporaries: the undeniable charm with which they deliver this collection of danceable pop and sultry R&B.
The standout on the album is “2 in the morning,” a timeless love song, and the most fully realized group collaboration. “Click click click” gets the album off to an engaging start and “Single” assures listeners that these New Kids are no longer kids but haven’t missed a beat since their younger days. They’re back, indeed, with a new hit single.
I must thank my good friend Steve Hoecherl for providing me with the album to review; it was much appreciated. The New Kids are back on the block they started from and with each “Step by Step,” earning a legion full of new admirers.
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