When people hear about new band Tinted Windows, one can almost hear the confused reaction across the nation: ""What the HELL?"" The new group is composed of Taylor Hanson of Hanson singing lead vocals, James Iha of the Smashing Pumpkins on guitar, Adam Schlesinger of Fountains Of Wayne on bass and Bun E. Carlos of Cheap Trick on the drums. However, as eclectic as these members may be, the combination of their geniuses melds together to form one majorly sweet power-pop supergroup.
Hanson and Schlesinger first crossed paths in the mid-nineties, and have always planned on doing something together. Schlesinger and Iha had worked together in the past, so he joined to form the trio. In need of a drummer, the group called Carlos on an impulse and received a positive response.
Tinted Windows came together in the name of music, and an enjoyable, not-too-thought-out compilation of songs is the final product. By no means does the existence of Tinted Windows mean the end of Hanson, Fountains of Wayne or Cheap Trick. Everyone can take a deep sigh of relief.
At first, it is hard to imagine how people who play such different types of music can unite in one band. But somehow they make it happen, even though it does not sound quite like any of their previous music. Each individual's strengths shine through on this high-energy, diverse album reminiscent of '80s pop rock.
At first listen, the audience might be shocked by the overtly pop-sounding tunes and disregard the album as a failed attempt. By the second listen, the groovy guitars and catchy hooks prove their brilliance. Who can deny good music if a tapping foot and nodding head can be seen? No one, that's who.
The band's first single off Tinted Windows, ""Kind of a Girl,"" nicely showcases what the group has to offer. Hanson's unmistakable voice and the groovy beat collectively make a memorable mark upon the album. The song's music video, a parody of a late-night cable access performance, illustrates how light-heartedly the group is taking this job.
The danceable ""Can't Get a Read on You"" and ""We Got Something"" offer fast amusement, while the slower ""Back with You"" and ""Doncha Wanna"" bring smooth melodies with simple lyrics. Although the songs obviously have a pop-rock sound, don't expect another Jonas Brothers here. The level of expertise collected from years of musical experience in previous projects gives Tinted Windows a much more sophisticated touch than other bubblegum pop albums.
With all the heavy stuff already circulating the music scene today, Tinted Windows offer a refreshing break. Tinted Windows provides simple and fun tunes to boogie to. Once you get past the confusion, you will hear an upbeat pop album worth listening to.
