NICK JONAS
For all of my fellow teeny-boppers out there, Nick Jonas, one third of the late 2000s band the Jonas Brothers, is back without his brothers and better than ever. The days of the JoFro and catchy pop-rock tunes are long gone for this former boy band member. Jonas' new self-titled album features songs like "Take Over" and "Numb" which showcase his dreamy falsetto and soulful undertones. This album has an upbeat vibe that will bring fangirls, hipsters, and R&B aficionados together unlike ever before.
Jonas’ opening track, "Chains", sets the stage for the entire album. Taking a page out of Justin Timberlake's playbook, Jonas’ new album has an unexpected sexy, R&B feel. Belting out, "trying to break the chains but the chains only break me", it is clear that Jonas is trying to shed his old image. Staying close to his pop roots, Jonas’ first single "Jealous" is a playful track perfectly paired with cheeky lyrics that will make listeners hit repeat over and over again. With its funky and trancelike beat pulsing through the speakers, "Teacher" offers a unique sound.
This album is not just filled with bubbly up-tempos. Jonas slows it down during "Warning", crooning, "I keep trying to escape / From this cage that I live in / This prison in my head", a subtle nod to his musical past. The fifth song, "Wilderness", picks up the pace with a tribal harmony that hums methodically behind his vocals. Jonas digs deeper and becomes even more vulnerable during "Push", a ballad written by the former JoBro himself. The singer’s dangerously high tenor rings achingly and tells the story of a classic heartbreak.
This album is far different from any work Jonas has done in the past. This time, Jonas has followed the lead of The Weeknd and Frank Ocean for a fresh sound, pulling inspiration from his old favorites, Stevie Wonder and Prince. Featuring collaborations with Angel Haze, Mike Posner, and friend Demi Lovato, Jonas has confirmed that he is more than capable of holding his own musically.
Overall, this album provides a much-needed break from the never-ending influx of auto-tuned pop constantly streaming through the airwaves. Is it for everyone? Probably not. But what album is? If you appreciate raw talent, then ignore your perceptions of Nick Jonas and give this album a chance. I promise that it will not disappoint.
Listen to "Chains" by Nick Jonas
Ashley Borda is a senior majoring in Business Administration and English. She enjoys long car rides, cookie dough ice cream, and purple lipstick.
