To hear that the Jonas Brothers were reuniting was a true shock. I still remember seeing “Jonas Brothers Reunion” trending on Twitter and being in disbelief. Growing up, I was obsessed with the band. As embarrassing as it is to admit, I would watch Camp Rock on repeat and had handwritten “I Love Joe!” signs all over my bedroom wall. I wasn’t running around screaming with joy when I heard the news like my seven-year-old self would have done, but I was excited to see what kind of music the brothers were going to release six years after their breakup.

During the first week of June, the Jonas Brothers released their album Happiness Begins. The band consists of New Jersey natives Kevin, Nick and Joe Jonas. After the brothers disbanded in 2013, their personal relationships were strained. But it’s clear that Happiness Begins was a way for the band to put bad blood behind them and move forward doing what they truly love — making music. 

The band’s original music was overflowing with guitars, drums and raspy vocals while Happiness Begins is full of upbeat pop melodies. Multiple songs like “Trust” and “Happy When I’m Sad” rely heavily on the use of infectious beats and catchy choruses. The album also has some emotional heartfelt songs like “Hesitate” and  “Comeback” that display the love each brother has for his wife. With its versatile songs and new sounds, it’s clear that the band stepped out of its comfort zone to make this comeback album memorable.

What makes Happiness Begins a special album is the passion and meaning behind each song. The Jonas Brothers are no longer just “burnin’ up” for teenage romances but instead are focusing on more mature topics. The songs on the 14-track album display all the love, hardships, fun and memories the band experienced during the years of their break. One of my favorite songs on the album is “Rollercoaster” because it tells the story of the band in in just three minutes. The brothers do not hold anything back as they sing “Those days that are the worst, they seem to glow now.” Throughout the years, the band has had to deal with demanding schedules, judgmental critiques, and the fear of failure. However, with this song, they are able to look back on the past with a new understanding and thank it for making them the band they are today. They close out the song saying “Happiness begins,” proving that this album is a fresh start for the band. 

If you’re into Top 40 pop music or are just a nostalgic Jonas Brothers fan like me, I would recommend Happiness Begins. Even if you’re not into pop music or have mixed feelings about the band, I would still recommend giving it a try. As corny as it may sound, the album has a lot of feel good songs that are almost guaranteed to make you smile or dance along. This album is truly a way for old and new fans alike to “find a place where happiness begins.”