MUSIC REVIEW: Carter’s solo CD is a success
Former Backstreet Boy Nick Carter has gone solo. I guess it was only a matter of time. But what is surprising here is that he isn’t bad. What a shame he hid what he could do behind a boy band.
His style has matured, and this album, Now or Never, is a good one. He has a sound nothing like those in his former group. He’s come into his own, and that is refreshing. Not to put down the other guy who is going solo after being part of a successful band, Carter has broken new ground. The other, well his songs sound a lot like the last outing for his band.
So here is the break down. Carter wrote about half of the songs on this CD. True, I normally respect artists who write all of their material more, but this is a fantastic freshman effort.
The first single to be released, “Help Me” is really Carter’s coming-of-age song. He is trying to find his own place in the industry and prove he belongs there. This is probably the song I would have released first, too, but it is not the best thing on the album.
The tracks he helped pen actually offer some of the most diverse and unique sound. “Girls in the USA” is a nice rock-laden track. Fun and fresh. Something the boy band movement has been lacking. “Is it Saturday Yet” is another one of his songs that gives the album a new sound.
Other highlights include the tracks “Blow your Mind” and “I Just Wanna Take you Home” are both great songs. Everyone likes different things, and maybe other listeners will find songs that speak to them more than these.
Carter’s sound is much more in-line with the current movement in music. For those who enjoy Michelle Branch or similar sounds, this album is something that will appeal for more than one reason.
Carter has crafted a strong solo release — something that could be the beginning of the end for boy bands everywhere.
In a recent interview, Carter said he wanted to find his own sound and depart from his old label and former group. He is hoping to strike out and find his own footing. He accomplishes this with Now or Never.
Justin Berry is an aspiring actor who reviews everything from movies to music. Comments can be sent to justinsb26@hotmail.com.