Jonas Brothers make strong debut

CD Review

Ellen Kizik

Jonas Brothers
It’s About Time
Sony Music

Jonas Brothers are the newest teen sensation to explode into the music scene. The band consists of 13-year-old Nick (vocals/keyboard), 16-year-old Joe (vocals/guitar) and 18-year-old Kevin (back-up vocals/guitar). But these brothers aren’t just another Hanson. Their music reaches beyond the teeny-bopper crowd. Heavily influenced by legends such as The Ramones, The Jackson Five and the Oslands, as well as more current bands, including Motion City Soundtrack, Copeland, Jack’s Mannequin and Fall Out Boy, these brothers approach music from a mature and musically diverse perspective.

Having grown up in a family of musicians, the Jonas Brothers spent the past year recording and honing their live show. Their debut album, It’s About Time, is a catchy mix of pop-punk tunes that break through any mainstream barriers. Eight of the 11 tracks are original; however, the entire album seems sincere. On tour the brothers have supporting musicians but by no means does that deter from the main act. The best way to describe the Jonas Brothers is “music on Red Bull,” which is a term coined by Kevin. Still, their individuality shows through. Nick likes to describe himself as the serious type, Joe is the crazy one and Kevin is artsy.

In the past year, the Jonas Brothers have toured relentlessly, supporting acts like Jesse McCartney, Click Five, The Veronicas and even the Backstreet Boys. They have premiered at the Stony Pig (in New Jersey), which is where Bruce Springsteen got his start. Despite the amount of time they spend together, these brothers are best friends. And they are certainly wise beyond their years.
“Never let someone look down on you because you’re young. Work hard because practice pays off,” said Joe, who, along with his brothers, is living proof that success is not equivalent to age.

Kevin shared a valuable piece of advice that all three of them abide by. “Live like you’re at the bottom even if you’re at the top. Stay humble and grateful towards everyone.”

Although each brother has different aspirations — for example, Joe wanted to be a professional comedian and Nick wanted to be a pro baseball player or even the president of the United States — these brothers are in it for the long haul. The Jonas Brothers are inspired by their faith, which is the greatest driving force for today’s youth.