This week you might have seen something different on ITunes’s top 10 albums: Jon McLaughlin’s “Indiana.” He did not just come out of nowhere. His single “Beautiful Disaster” was the free download of the week less than a month ago. He just finished opening for Stephen Kellogg and Matt Wertz and plans to join Jonny Lang on some early summer dates. McLaughlin’s debut album proves that he is not just eye candy. His piano filled songs and sweet lyrics leave listeners mesmerized. Indiana should feel proud of its amazing representative.

Here are some summaries from what I consider the strongest songs on the album. The ones not mentioned are in no way a let down. They are all very strong lyrically and musically. Every song tells a different story with a different background music. Yet they all have the essence of McLaughlin’s piano holding them together.

Industry:

McLaughlin’s opening song happens to be one of my favorites. In the first few seconds we hear the sound of his absolutely incredible piano skills. The melody is beautiful, and the chorus will hunt you moments after finishing the song. I think Industry is an excellent choice for the opener. Without a doubt, it captivates you in.

Beautiful Disaster:

This song is the first single. The lyrics tell the story of a seventeen year old insecure girl who is pressured to be perfect yet she is a “beautiful disaster.” The music pulls you in and the lyrics are one of McLaughlin’s best. Folks, be ready to listen to this at your local radio station soon.

Human:

This is my other favorite song. He talks about the imperfection of everyone because we are human; “After all, we're only human. Always fighting what we're feeling. Hurting, instead of healing. After all, we're only human. Is there any other reason why we 
Stay instead of leaving, after all?” The lyrics of the song are my favorite of the entire album. Anyone can relate and appreciate this song.

Indiana:

If you are not speechless after listening to this song, then you cannot appreciate a good ballad. This track is the only one consisting of just Jon and his piano, he sings about his homestate. While listening to this song, one cannot help but stop and listen to his voice and beautiful piano part. This song has a lot of potential. The fact that it’s just Jon and his piano represent how he does not need a full band to capture you. It’s been a long time since I’ve listened to a song that wows me like Indiana did.

Anthem for American Teenagers:

Singing at a loner tone than usual, Mclaughlin sings one of the strongest songs on the album musically speaking. The piano part is strong and the background music recollects your thoughts after the acoustic sounds of Indiana. Out of all the songs, I can see this one become the next single.

Overall:

People always tell you that you’re going to find an artist that will change your life. Well, this is one of them for me. McLaughlin’s album is a must. It is something you can listen to over and over without being overwhelmed. Each song has many different aspects people with different music tastes will enjoy. With such an early success, one can only assume we will be hearing more of Jon McLaughlin in the future.

4.8/5 Stars. Because I will never give a perfect 5.

Cristina Carrazza is a staff writer on Musiqtone. You can reach her at cristinacarrazza@musiqtone.com.