Step Forward

Is adolescent pop supposed to be this clever? The Dallas-based Taylor Thrash sings radio-ready pop songs in a grown-up Nick Jonas voice, with nary a hint of hipster irony. Thrash’s heartfelt convictions in songs like the opening “Losing My Mind” help Step Forward bypass the guilty for the pleasure. “La La Love” moves on a skip-along beat with distorted electric guitars and Velcro-catchy hooks—but, again, what really makes this song come to life is Thrash laying his feelings on the line and singing his heart out. Even when he fails at making himself look like a bad boy (“What’s Her Name”), his attempt is endearing and should connect with anyone who's ever unsuccessfully tried to cover up heartbreak with a thinly veiled mean-mask. Thrash is much more successful when it comes to performing ballads. “Broken” reveals a man with an uncanny talent for creating those nearly whisper-sung serenades punctuated by piano and descending chord changes. As much as heartbreak proves to be a worthwhile muse, Thrash’s best moments (“Run into Me”) come when he’s fawning.