The Human Condition-Jon Bellion Album Review
Electronic/Rap/Pop artist Jon Bellion created quite the masterpiece with his debut record, The Human Condition. It is the mix of several different genres, but wraps up into a listening experience that truly is beyond any other. Bellion, being a Christian, follows that theme by incorporating those beliefs into some of these songs. Not only that, he takes a societal stance by giving his opinions on our beliefs as a society. He truly is unlike any artist with these genres and is on his way to making a name for himself.
“He Is the Same:” This is the song that starts off the album and it begins with a quiet beeping effect. It leads into his vocals, which change from the verses to the chorus. In the verses, he has a strained-sounding voice in which he raps, switching to a smooth voice when he sings during the chorus. His voice is unique since he is able to pull off those drastic changes in one song.
“80’s Films:” The effects Bellion uses to create this song creates a nostalgic feeling. His voice shines during the entire song and isn’t too plain because of the trumpet sounds he includes in the background of the verses. Bellion created a storyline within, which reflects back to his high school years. He compares that time of his life to the events of an 80’s film and even mentions a fan favorite, “The Breakfast Club". His vocal talent is shown off as well because of not only how he sings, but the way he hits the high notes at different points.
“All Time Low:” His hit single that created the buzz around Bellion and got more people introduced to his music. It is one that is simple; it’s created out of a simple beat and simple lyrics. The whole chorus is just, “I’m at an all time low,” with ‘low’ being repeated multiple times and is paired with the same two stand-out beats with quieter ones overlapping. But it still manages to be a unique tune. The beat pauses during the verses that make it sound like Bellion’s voice is being paused. It leads into making his voice sound a bit robotic, but it’s a different touch.
“New York Soul Pt. 2:” Beginning with dreamy effects, a guitar, and Bellion’s voice, many would think this song will be a pretty ballad type to the city he grew up in. However, this is not the case. After “I did everything for New York,” in the chorus, the beat fades away abruptly and leads into a rap verse. It’s a large contrast and somehow it works. This is especially because it is not what the listener would except. But from listening through this album more than twice, it can be told to expect the unexpected with Bellion.
“Maybe IDK:” There’s something captivating about this song. The verse, which instantly pulls the listener in, gradually picks up from a simple guitar to a slight electronic effect and clapping in the background, all to lead up to the pre-chorus. His songwriting is shown off in every song, but very much so in this one. “Although I guess if I knew tomorrow/I guess I wouldn’t need faith/I guess if I never fell/ I guess I wouldn’t need grace/I guess if I knew his plans/I guess he wouldn’t be God.” These religious references give a large insight to what Bellion’s inspirations and beliefs are.
“Weight of the World:” Bellion doesn’t settle for just one genre or one style to base his songs on. And “Weight of the World” shows that off perfectly. He experiments with a variety of sounds, including celestial effects that make the listener feel as if they are in space, guitar, trumpet/jazz effects and echoes. The whole song has that dreamy effect like the chorus of “New York Soul Pt. 2” and has the similar abrupt change. Except, at this one it’s the bridge where the rapping begins.
“Hand of God:” Ending a record is not easy and somehow Bellion manages to pull it off almost flawlessly. It neatly ties up the whole album with the most religious lyricism. Once it hits 3 minutes and 20 seconds, it sounds as if the song has ended. But then a gospel singer begins singing the chorus in a completely different style than Bellion. In addition, a choir is added which mixes the chorus of “Hand of God” with other songs that appeared earlier: “He Is the Same,” “80’s Films,” “Overwhelming,” and more. The last two minutes of this song build into a truly fantastic experience to listen to. The mix of the choir and gospel singer add to this song and make it one of the best last songs on an album this year.
No matter what genres you are a fan of, don’t set aside this record because of genre. This is the reason it will be overlooked by many, but take the time to listen to some songs and you’ll be hooked. His lyricism, vocals, and production are all astounding and make listening to The Human Condition an unforgettable experience.
Allison Wulfhorst is a freshman majoring in Journalism. To contact her, email her at akw5392@psu.edu.
