Purdie’s Peeved: A critique of Jon Bellion’s “The Human Condition”

Michael Purdie, News Editor

When I heard the first cord to Jon Bellion’s song “Morning in America” over the intercom during homeroom on Thursday I immediately thought to myself, “They can’t be playing this song, it wouldn’t be appropriate.”

However, they did play the song, all of it. And, of course, the song still referenced oxycodone every chorus, as well as overdosing, liquor in the first verse, and porn in the last.

“Morning in America” is the eleventh track on Bellion’s new album “The Human Condition” released June 10. The all-in-one hip hop, pop rock, and alternative R&B album was produced by Capitol Records and consists of fourteen tracks.

Bellion started as a struggling songwriter in Long Island, New York until he was picked up by Capitol Records in 2013. He released his debut album “The Definition” in 2014, yet he never gained a large following until the release of “The Human Condition.”

Bellion takes a twist on modern pop and tells his richly emotional stories through his normally upbeat music. The tracks consist of diverse beats and vocals, making an interesting outcome.

“All Time Low,” Bellion’s most popular song on Spotify, exemplifies his vocal range and stimulating instrumentals.

“Morning in America” contains different, interesting lyrics while keeping a contrast between an optimistic beat and passionate lines. The song takes the reader on a journey through the common actions of Americans and how “out of control” these seemingly normal events are.

“The Human Condition” is filled with ideas and feelings of love, criticism, and self philosophies. Bellion references his own personal battles and overcoming major obstacles in his life.

The stories Bellion tells here find joy in regret.  They offer views into Bellion’s mind and emotions. They support Bellion’s ideas of both distress and satisfaction. They are the perfect medium in which he exemplifies his outlooks and opinions.

The combination of strong vocals and intense instrumentals show the power of Bellion’s work.

The album ends with the song “Hand of God— Outro,” which, as it states in the title, is a final conclusion to the stories told in the tracks. Other songs are referenced in order to bring a satisfying close to album.

For information on Jon Bellion’s album, tour, and merchandise, please go to www.jonbellion.com.