Jonas Brothers “The Album” Review
Let's delve into the technical aspects for a moment: The Album exudes lyrical sensitivity and embodies the essence of a summer dance party with strong 70s influences. The cohesiveness is striking as the songs seamlessly flow together, maintaining consistent underlying tones. While the Jonas Brothers have always infused their songs with remarkable lyrics and enjoyable riffs, this time their harmony throughout the entire musical journey is palpable.
It's worth noting that the album is notably concise—clocking in at just under 33 minutes, with many songs falling short of the standard 3-minute mark. Although it's an enjoyable 33 minutes overall, fans might find themselves wishing the songs lingered a bit longer.
Kicking off the album is the airy "Montana Skies," a track tailor-made for a cross-country road trip playlist. Narrating their travels across the United States, lyrics like "I got brothers in their thirties back in Jersey / but your heart is where I’m home" direct the spotlight to the affection they hold for their respective spouses. It's a heartfelt and easy-to-sing-along love letter spanning the nation.
Featuring a captivating chorus and impeccable harmonies from all three brothers, "Montana Skies" gives off the impression that it should have led the album instead of "Miracle," which lacks the same captivating allure. Yet, it's possible that "Miracle" doesn't aim for maximum catchiness; instead, it could serve to introduce listeners to the consistent elements of 70s disco-inspired riffs, falsetto, and unconventional harmonies that persist throughout the record.
As the second single from The Album, "Waffle House" is a lively, danceable track that pays homage to family, close loved ones, and sharing life's journey with those you trust and love deeply. Its lyrics convey sweetness, particularly in honoring their parents, brotherly bond, and the unwavering companions you encounter on your path.
Despite several highlights, The Album experiences its moments of ebb as well. "Summer in the Hamptons" creates a sensation of intruding on a highly intimate scene. With echoes of Marvin Gaye's sensual style, it diverges from the band's collective creativity and rather feels like a track that could be a b-side from Nick's 2021 solo album "Spaceman."
Certainly, one track that notably falls short is "Americana." It feels somewhat like an afterthought compared to the other songs, lacking alignment in tone with the rest of the album and blending too many musical styles without creating a memorable impact.
The lead single, "Wings," carries endearing lyrics (spoiler: centered around love) and showcases Joe's trademark crooning and gritty, rock-n-roll riffs he's known for, particularly in live performances. However, the song's brevity leaves a sense of incompleteness, as if it's missing an additional minute. This leaves listeners wanting more, creating an unsatisfying moment within the album's middle.
Notwithstanding these occasional missteps, the album finds its stride with a couple of truly exceptional tracks. "Summer Baby" stands out as a potential unofficial anthem for the summer of 2023, boasting an effortless likability. "Vacation Eyes," a 70s-style love ballad reminiscent of the Bee Gees, could easily become a popular choice for newlyweds' first dance, with lines like "I got vacation eyes / I’m gonna have them for the rest of my life."
Then there's "Little Bird," positioned as one of the album's final tracks. Unique in its own right, it could have easily thrived as a standalone single. This poignant ode celebrates the collective five daughters of the brothers, capturing the beauty of small moments shared between a father and daughter. Its potential extends to becoming a cherished addition to many wedding soundtracks, making it a perfect selection for a father-daughter dance.
Undoubtedly, The Album reflects the brothers' enjoyment during the writing and recording process, catering more to their dedicated, long-term fans than aiming to attract new ones. These songs can be seen as a way to "Celebrate!" where the Jonas Brothers are in life—embracing joy, love, and navigating challenges through dance.
It's possible that some fans, like your friend, might still find it difficult to connect with the new style, sentiment, and sound. This departure from their previous work is so significant that it almost creates the sensation of listening to an entirely different band. The tracks generally lean towards a more sentimental tone than their prior compositions, often bordering on a fine line between heartfelt and cringeworthy, such as lyrics like "I’m deep inside your sand / A different kind of warmness."
Taking inspiration from 70s music was undoubtedly a bold move for the band. While it resulted in their stylistically strongest album yet, it remains uncertain whether the risk was entirely worthwhile. Featuring lively tempos and harmonies that could undoubtedly be complemented by backup singers, this collection of songs seems tailor-made for live performances, even though the set might be too brief for a full concert. The reception fans have during The Tour this upcoming summer could potentially shape the album's lasting impact.
I would give this album 3 out of 4 stars.