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Millennium

Artist: Backstreet Boys
Genre: Alternative
Year: 1999
Rating: 6.5 / 10

With the late 1990s success of the Backstreet Boys, comparisons are invariably made to their 1980s brethren, New Kids on the Block. Likewise, this 90s iteration is expected to last just as long, only to flame out and waste away. The New Kids on the Block were adored by screaming female fans, and reviled by the vast majority of the male populace. When they first burst onto the scene in 1997 with their self-titled debut album, the Boys had a similar fan base. However, after delivering hit upon mainstream hit, the quintet has expanded its following, reaching heights only dreamed about by previous teen groups. And with Millennium, the band's highly-anticipated follow-up album, the Backstreet Boys prove once again that they are the undisputed kings of today's pop music.

Featuring a slightly more mature sound and familiar themes, Millennium attempts to build off of the tremendous success of Backstreet Boys. To their credit, the Boys stick to what works, singing through countless harmonized ballads, intermingled with the occasional dance number. "Larger Than Life," the album's opening track, bounces along in a similar fashion to "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)," one of the band's first hits. This number, telling of the growing impact of fame on the lives of the band members, and "It's Gotta Be You" are sure to be successful dance hits, thanks to a rhythmic beat and catchy lyrics. These up-tempo songs are in the minority, however, as the Boys are determined to reward the loyal following with more of the love songs which brought them such sure-fire fame.

The tone for Millennium is set early by "I Want It That Way," the first song released from the album. Featuring some sparkling vocals from Brian Littrell, this chart-topper established the group's new album as a presence in the pop market. "I Need You Tonight" and "Spanish Eyes" offer a mellower sampling of the group's vast talents, not that their fans had any doubt. The group's members even get a little sentimental with "The Perfect Fan," a tribute to their mothers for helping guide the singers during their young lives.

The Backstreet Boys - Kevin , Howie D, A.J., B-Rok, and Nick - succeed because they give their fans exactly what they want to hear. The choruses on the vast majority of their songs are contagious, with beats to which you can snap your fingers. When I first heard of the band back in 1997, I, too, scoffed when first made aware of the group's popularity, but I am not ashamed to admit they have grown on me. It took a thumping hit like "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)" for me to give them their due, but I now count myself proudly among their legions of screaming fans. The Backstreet Boys offer songs to feel good about, with themes everyone can understand and enjoy. So, until someone comes along to take away the Backstreet Boys' throne, I want it that way!

Submitted 7/9/99.