THE title is defiant, but the truth is the Backstreet Boys are in a fight for relevance on their first disc in five years.
The “Boys” are older and more mellow than on any of their previous work, including the lackluster “Black and Blue.” Yet despite the easy pace of this album, the songs are melodically strong and show off the outfit’s skillful harmonies.
Occasionally the Boys do conjure their glory days – like on the syncopated, upbeat track “My Beautiful Woman” and the tear-jerking ballad “Safest Place to Hide.” But with *NSYNC sunk by Justin Timberlake’s solo career, the Backstreeters are the last boys standing. And a pretty, straightforward disc might be too soft to make any impact.
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BACKSTREET BOYS
“Never Gone”
[** 1/2] (Two and one-half stars)
Jive Records