The last time I saw New Kids on the Block, I was 12 years old. The first time, they performed at Anaheim’s Celebrity Theatre, which only held 1,200 people. The next year, Hangin’ Tough was released, and when they came back to Los Angeles they played the Forum.

In that short amount of time, they had risen to arena status. So it was no surprise that 20 years later, they would return to play a sold-out show at the Staples Center.

I wasn’t sure what to expect, I’m a grown woman and certainly far removed from the pop scene. But all the memories came back, minus the screaming for my favorite New Kid (sorry that’s classified).

They have certainly matured, the “new” sound fits them well, and boy, can they still dance. It’s obvious that they are reveling in the renewed interest, deservedly so.

Unlike other bands that separate and reunite and something feels off, NKOTB has returned in a progressive and fresh way. The new album, The Block, has some great tracks, including “Single” (feat. Ne-Yo) and “Full Service” (with New Edition!).

It couldn’t have been a better time for the New Kids to come back, and I’m sure they’ll be well received wherever they go. As for me, I’d like to thank the band for making me feel like a kid again.