When New Kids on the Block started touring again, probably fifteen or more years ago, it felt like it had been ages since I'd heard the name of that boy band. For sure, their time had come and gone. Why not re-visit the past, though? Rock bands have been selling the nostalgia act for decades.
Here we are in 2024, and a summer tour from New Kids on the Block has become a reliable night out for GenX and elder millennials to revisit their childhood. In truth, NKOTB has enjoyed more staying power since their return than they ever enjoyed at their peak in the 80's and early 90's. Arguably, their probably selling less music, and I'd venture a guess there are a few less walls adorned with Tiger Beat photos of Jordan Knight and crew pinned up, but a win is a win and these guys are unquestionably thriving year after year.
This year saw the release of their latest effort, 'Still Kids,' providing them some new material to sprinkle into their set list night after night. By "sprinkle," I mean almost 20% of their live show. If that gives you pause, relax, they played almost thirty songs every night, and they're hitting all of your favorite hits.
As I arrived at the venue, it was clear the fans in attendance knew the assignment. The majority of the crowd was decked out in various iterations of near clothes. The vibes were definitely on point, as DJ Jazzy Jeff took the stage for a brief DJ set to bring the crowed into the moment.
After a quick set change, Paul Abdul was up next. This was my first time seeing her perform, and I've got to admit, that woman can still move incredibly well. I'm not sure what I expected, but I'm sure she inspired everyone in attendance to get moving.
Her set included a brief, but carefully crafted selection of career spanning hits such as "Straight Up," "Cold Hearted" and "Opposites Attract."
I last covered New Kids on the Block shortly before COVID, back in 2019, during "The Mixed Tape Tour," which brought a completely different show to the stage. On that tour, the group entered dressed in white suits vs the neon track suits they adorned on this tour. Such a visual change was welcome to this photographer, as this provided an entirely new experience.
The show began as a neon outline of the band was traced on the giant video wall behind the stage. Moments later, each member was under a spotlight, one at a time, as they came to life under a wildly colorful neon background, as if right out of the opening credits to Saved by the Bell.
They immediately broke into the opening tracks of 'Still Kids' with "Magic" and "Summer Love" to kick off the show. From there, it was way back to the 'Hangin' Tough' album with "Cover Girl" and "My Favorite Girl," just to make sure everyone knew this show was all about the hits, both old and new.
Ultimately, this tour served as just the latest reminder that New Kids on the Block have plenty left in the tank. Their new tunes are worthy of inclusion in their set ("Dance With You" is an absolute banger) and the hits still sound great!
It's a bummer if you missed out on this summer's tour, but odds are you'll get another shot to see New Kids in the next year or two! Stay tuned and definitely get out there if you're still on the sidelines!
