★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2 out of 5
Disney Channel fans grew up with the Jonas Brothers (aka Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jones) as the trio starred in the television film series Camp Rock and an original, self-titled sitcom series. During this peak career time, the brothers also released an album each year between 2006 and 2009 (It's About Time, Jonas Brothers, A Little Bit Longer, and Lines, Vines and Trying Times) before a brief hiatus the year after.
Subsequently, Joe released his debut solo album Fastlife, Nick and his Administration shared Who I Am, and Kevin tied the knot and starred in reality TV series Married to Jonas. The brothers then decided the time was right for a reunion.
The reformed trio eventually shared “Pom Poms” as the lead single off planned fifth album V. “First Time” followed soon after. However, just as promotion was gaining traction, an internal riff brought it all to a halt. Citing creative differences, the band officially disbanded yet again in 2013.
Nick eventually released two solo studio albums (a self-titled debut, Last Year Was Complicated), Joe formed and led funk-pop band DNCE (“Cake By the Ocean”, “Kissing Strangers”), and Kevin continued to enjoy the married life. But as Joe and Nick were still actively promoting side projects, the six-year Jonas Brothers hiatus came to an unexpected end with the release of number-one hit “Sucker” in March 2019.
The success and positive reception toward the new band single blossomed into news of a proper fifth studio album, Happiness Begins. Preceded by second single “Cool”, the new effort touches on each of the brothers’ personal lives, with the inclusion of love songs dedicated to each of their wives. With production and songwriting credits for hitmakers such as Ryan Tedder, Justin Tranter, and Greg Kurstin, the pop project becomes the strongest release of the band’s career, and of the year.
Lead single and album opener “Sucker”, a track of pure adoration and infatuation, is carried by subtle rock instrumentals and an infectious whistle-heavy chorus. Instead of dancing on top of cars and drunkenly stumbling out of bars, the boys do not seem to mind following the orders of their ladies now that each have found a forever love. Follow up single “Cool” references the brothers' recent personal achievements, reflecting on their individual success with a sense of pride and satisfaction. The stripped back, summer-tinged production serves as a strong juxtaposition to its predecessor.
From there, the unheard efforts build a case for important life relationships, strong harmonies, poignant lyrical content, and a carefree vibe.
Likely choice for next official single “Only Human”, helmed by Shellback, takes a night on the dance floor and extends the fun to in-between the sheets. Sultry and carried by 80s-sounding production, the summery flare could easily dominate radio. “Oh, babe, you can't fool me, your body's got other plans, so stop pretending you’re shy, just come on and dance,” the brothers tease.
“Love Her” also speaks of the love each brother shares for their significant other, it just doesn’t pack as strong a punch. However, the sweet number should be commended for highlighting growth and maturity as the band sings about not letting petty arguments and heartache get in the way of a potential future.
But what happen when that love fades? The brothers explore the unfortunate theme on “Used To Be”, a subdued Ryan Tedder-produced effort. The brothers cope with mixed feelings toward a former fling, distraught that the relationships ended, but willing to jump up to the occasion should they reach out. “We had love, now it don't matter, you just thought you could do better,” they sing with content.
However, on “Every Single Time”, the artists cannot seem to move on so easily from a break up. Supported by reggae-pop production, they acknowledge that a significant other may not the best match for them, but remain infatuated. They continue with that state of mind on “Trust” as they maneuver through numerous genre influences. Though they are aware of the consequences, they remain drawn to the dangerous flame.
The brothers then pleads for a second chance on “Don’t Throw It Away”, a straightforward synth-pop affair where they ask a lover to give their relationship more thought and consideration. “Cause I know you think you’re better off without me now, sayin' all you need is space, but baby, we can work this out,” Nick sings on the hook.
On Post Malone-referencing “Happy When I’m Sad”, it appears they never get that second chance. Over surprisingly bouncy production, the brothers sing of always putting on a smile, even on their bleakest days. Though a great addition, the song does get lost in the shuffle. Similar to how critics say "Strangers" does. In actuality, the pop effort becomes a much needed dose of energy and optimism as the album progresses. It's love at first sight for the brothers as Nick and Joe trade in vocal acrobatics.
The album closes out with two odes to relationships. "Rollercoaster" highlights the importance of the sibling relationship, singing of the band's successful yet troubled past and embracing the maturity and bond that formed over time. "We were up-and-down and barely made it over, but I'd go back and ride that roller coaster," they chant without regret. On "Comeback", though it also touches on the band's reunion, the message's reach is expanded to that of a romantic encounter. Touching and authentic, it serves as a moment of appreciation for those fans who waited patiently for their return.
Happiness Begins was an album no one saw coming, reducing the need to best expectations. Each brother grew in their own way as the band was on hiatus, both personally and career-wise, creating a safe space for them to share in personal experiences. Singing and crafting from the heart, the Jonas Brothers have looked past previous internal bickering and focused on their shared joy in making music. This leads to organic, genuine, and radio-ready tracks that highlight current relationships, the fear of those relationship ending, and sibling love. Instead of jumping on trends, the new album sounds like a natural progression, continuing the trajectory the band was already on when they last released a proper album... over a decade ago.
Tracks to Hear: "Sucker", "Only Human", "I Believe", "Don't Throw It Away" and "Strangers"
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