Look, sometimes there are things from our past that we just can’t avoid, even if we constantly try to distance ourselves from them. You know the games you play — the “I never liked them” and “I never wore that” excuses. But we all know the truth: You did wear that, and you did like them. Case in point: New Kids on the Block. Yeah, we know, you really didn’t like them. Sure, we believe that, somewhere in your parents basement, there isn’t a copy of Hangin’ Tough. Look, instead of feebly trying to ignore it, why not embrace your secret shame and try to come to some sort of reconciliation with your past? With some of the best-selling albums of their decade, and about as many chart-topping records, NKOTB were tapping into something that appealed to late-’80s and early-’90s kids. Perhaps it was the cultural bridge the group tried to build between urban black music and suburban white youth. Perhaps it was the feel-good beats and singalong choruses. Or the more likely alternative — you liked all the cute girls who thought Donnie Wahlberg was hot. Well, even though you’re not in sixth grade anymore, there’s a chance that cute girl, the one with the sideways ponytail and the cool Trapper Keeper, will be there for this one. Here’s your shot, champ. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. at Blossom (1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 330.920.8040).Tickets: $20-$79. — Hall
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