String Theory

No, don’t worry, I’m not going to be talking about actual scientific string theory (because ouch my brain) but the String Theory concert/ new album from Hanson.

I know, you might be wondering why I’ve flashed back to the late 90’s but let me tell you a little something about my fave band in the world. They are still going. Strong.

I can see your eyebrows raising. The smirk that plays on your lips as you revel in how much better your music taste is than mine (subjective, but OK) but allow me to gush about them for a hot second.

Hanson recently released an album: String Theory. It’s a hot new take on musical genius because what they’re done is used new and old songs to create a story (with two parts) and what a way to celebrate being a band for 26 years! The highlight; it’s all accompanied by a fantastic orchestral arrangement.

On Tuesday night I, along with my boyfriend and sister, went to see them at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. It’s a fantastic venue where a live orchestra fills the space with sound that seems to not only surround you but flow into your brain like the call is coming from inside the house. I’m such a good writer and that sentence wasn’t at all silly and gross, but you get what I mean, right?

To say it was fantastic would be an understatement. I’ve seen Hanson a number of times (read: every time they come to Manchester) and they never fail to amaze me with their vocal ability. Each song was belted out, pitch perfect, with such force I felt like I had a sore throat. I guess that’s why they’re the professionals and I’m just the person literally singing from the rafters (because I got us seats up in the high heavens to save money). The album is one I know I’m going to listen to for a VERY long time. There were some classic songs – Mmmbop, Where’s the Love, This Time Around – as well as song amazing new songs – Reaching for the Sky, Battle Cry, Siren – they even managed to get people singing along with songs they’d never heard before until that night. That’s how catchy they are.

So we watched, I sang, I clapped along until my hands hurt, and I left wondering whether there would be any other band in my life that would so encapsulate my heart as completely as they do for as long as they have.

If you made it this far, well done. This was just me telling you how much I love Hanson and you just read it all for no good reason! Ok, I’ll give you a reason. I’ve put together a secret PTB playlist of my fave Hanson songs that you get to listen to if you want! If you do please let me know which is your fave song. If you already love the band just tell me what your fave song is anyway!

Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk.

Sam