Album Reviews
Movie Reviews
Concert Reviews

Top 10
Resources
Time Wasters
Contact Us

Jon McLaughlin has really come into his own as a songwriter/singer beginning with the latter part of 2006. First, his song “Another Layer” was on the soundtrack for the movie, Bridge to Terebithia and now “Beautiful Disaster” is the title song for Georgia Rule. “Beautiful Disaster” (aptly titled) has striking lyrics about a person who is “not good enough” and needs “someone to retain control and take her home.” The movie stars Lindsay Lohan, along with Jane Fonda and Felicity Huffman.

Jon McLaughlin writes meaningful lyrics that tell a story.  Accompaniments of keyboard, guitar and percussion mesh with the singer and lyrics to produce a highly listenable song. Track One, “Industry” is an energetic introduction to the CD and tells you that “when you grow silent, I start to fall.” So listen up.

“Anthem for American Teenagers” has a rhythmic introduction including guitar and percussion. The guitar solo in the middle of the piece is just enough to whet your appetite for “empty on the inside, I’ll be your shoulder.”  “Proud Father” is a ballad, sung longingly and whispery soft. 

“Praying to the Wrong God” is about being with the wrong person and this time it is someone who has the singer “praying to the wrong god every night.” Reminds one of Samson and Delilah. The singer wants hope to keep from being a loser. "Indiana's"  last track, “Until You Got Love” states, “Until you got love, you know you got nothing, it’s come to set you free.” 

Jon McLaughlin has a direct style of vocalizing. Nothing hidden here, it’s up front. McLaughlin’s next project is as actor/singer in the film, “Enchanted” due out the fall of 2007. However, the song he will be singing will be written by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz. You don’t have to live in Indiana to appreciate Jon McLaughlin and his music. Enjoy.

Copyright 2007 Marie Asner
Submitted 5/29/07