Five iconic figures from Dorchester, Massachusetts, are captivating their fans on their current tour, ‘Magic Summer Tour.’ They recently marked a triumphant comeback with their first album in eleven years, a testament to their enduring influence in the music industry. If you haven’t already guessed, I’m referring to the legendary Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, Danny Wood, and the Knight brothers (Jordan and Jon), better known as New Kids on the Block.
The first single from the album, “Kids,” was written and produced by David Stewart and Luke Batt. The song describes a carefree and adventurous spirit shared by a group of individuals still young at heart despite growing up. The lyrics emphasize freedom and living in the moment, free from responsibilities and constraints. Let’s analyze the key lyrics and explore the deeper meanings within the song:
In the verses, the band reminisces about their journey together (“we been up since day one”) and their euphoric experiences, symbolized by chasing the sun and dancing under skylines. These moments are exhilarating, with time seemingly standing still when they’re together. Honestly, the song didn’t grab my attention on first listen. However, after seeing the video and a few more listens, the song grew on me.
The second single, ‘A Love Like This, ‘serves as a platform for Jordan Knight to showcase his unique falsetto. Co-written by group founder Donnie Wahlberg and Danish producer Deekay, the midtempo ballad encapsulates the profound and transformative experience of discovering an extraordinary and life-changing love. The lyrics convey overwhelming joy, gratitude, and commitment that stem from establishing a deep connection with a significant other. In his vocal delivery, Knight evokes the group’s early days and embodies a blend of emotions resonant with a married man’s perspective. Personally, this song struck a chord with me, reminding me of the power of love and its ability to transform lives.
As of the time of composition, the group has yet to announce a third single. However, the two tracks stand out distinctly. “Old School Love” presents a delightful duet with fellow pop artist Taylor Dayne, while “Get Down,” a collaboration with current tour partner DJ Jazzy Jeff, is tailored for club environments. Given appropriate promotional efforts, it has the potential to resonate with the urban AC audience.
On first listen, the album openers “Magic” and “Summer Love” left me with a vibe better suited for a spin group featuring Elijah Wahlberg and Griffin McIntyre, the sons of Donnie and Joey, both of whom appear on the album. Thankfully, the album regained its footing with the songs “Long Time Coming” and “Stay.”
Ideally, I would’ve loved to see the group link up with emerging talent like Kenyon Dixon and Lucky Daye to give us another straightforward R&B album in the vein of the vastly underrated “Face The Music.” However, if “Still Kids” intended to evoke their youth while embracing aging, the group quickly succeeds.
Final Grade: B
“Still Kids” is available on all streaming platforms.
Songstress Ashanti was experiencing significant success with two platinum albums at the time of the release of her inaugural holiday project, “Ashanti’s Christmas,” on November 18, 2003. Her label head, Irv Gotti, produced most of the album. This project comprises four original songs co-written by Ashanti, in addition to six cover versions of traditional Christmas standards and carols.
Vocal quartet A Few Good Man contributed two songs to the project: a cover of “Silver Bells” and the ballad “Merry Christmas My Dear,” both of which were produced by Daryl Simmons. Demail Burks, David Morris, Aaron Hilliard, and Tony Amey were the members of the group, and after introducing themselves in the festive video for “Silver Bells,” it was only fitting that they delivered a ballad on the album.
R&B legend Luther Vandross had already solidified his place in R&B when he released his first holiday album, “This Is Christmas. Arriving in stores on October 24, 1995, “This Is Christmas” validates Vandross’s ability to sing anything.
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