When's the right time to go solo? Judging by the title of Nick Carter's debut solo LP, there's no time like the present.

The youngest Backstreet Boy's Now or Never is slated for an October 22 release date, according to a Jive Records spokesperson. Carter is putting the finishing touches on the album while trying to determine the crucial first single and accompanying video.

Two tracks that are expected to make Now or Never's final track list are "My Confession" and "Help Me." "Help Me," which finds Carter in a defining life moment as he repeatedly sings, "Help me figure out the future," is also under consideration to be the first single.

"Help Me," like the rest of the tracks recorded for the album, trades in the epic production of Backstreet Boys songs such as "The Call" and "Larger Than Life" for a more rock-oriented, singer/songwriter feel. Guitars, drums, bass and not much else provide most of the instrumentation, and Carter's vocals are brought front and center.

Carter plans to support Now or Never on tour, and he's in the process of assembling a band for the outing.

The rest of the Backstreet Boys haven't been watching idly throughout Carter's sonic soul searching. The group is in the pre-production stage for their new album, the follow-up to 2000's Black & Blue, which is expected to drop early next year. An official release date hasn't been set.

—Joe D'Angelo