Hanson brothers prepare for new release, tour

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- The Tulsa-based pop trio Hanson is getting ready to release their first full-length record of original music since "Middle of Nowhere" shot to the top of the pop charts in 1997.

Monday, April 24th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- The Tulsa-based pop trio Hanson is getting ready to release their first full-length record of original music since "Middle of Nowhere" shot to the top of the pop charts in 1997.

"This Time Around" debuts May 9, produced by the reorganized record label, Island Def Jam. Since "Middle of Nowhere" --containing the sugary pop hit "MMM Bop" -- Hanson has released a Christmas album and a live album.

The Hanson brothers, Isaac, Taylor and Zac, are in Japan on a promotional tour and will be going to South America next. The three said they plan to tour extensively to promote the record worldwide.

"I hope it's a crazy year," said Zac. "That's a good thing. That means somebody likes it."

The new album was originally scheduled for release last fall, but hit some snags along the way.

The band scrapped planned recording sessions with producer and former Cars front man Ric Ocasek. Instead, they changed directions and rehired "Middle of Nowhere" producer Stephen Lironi.

Isaac said he feels good about the sound on the new record.

"We actually did take longer than we thought to make this record, and that's just the way the dice fell," said Isaac.

Most songs were written and recorded in the Hansons' home studio in Tulsa. Three more were created in a California recording studio.

The band said it has not firmed up touring dates.