Indiana (Jon McLaughlin Album)

''Indiana'' is the debut studio album by American singer and songwriter Jon McLaughlin. It was released on May 1, 2007, through The Island Def Jam Music Group. The album is a continuation of McLaughlin's extended play (EP), ''Industry'' (2007).

Singles

The lead single from the album, "Beautiful Disaster", was released in April 2007. The song peaked at number 28 on the ''Billboard'' Adult Top 40 chart.

"Proud Father" was released digitally as the second single from the album on July 19, 2007.

Critical reception

Russ Breimeier of ''Christianity Today'' stated "Things are off to a strong start for 24-year-old singer/songwriter Jon McLaughlin from Anderson, Indiana. After opening for the likes of O.A.R., Live, and Marc Broussard, his debut album (named for his home state) released to the mainstream last May. Much like his friend and tour mate Matt Wertz, McLaughlin offers subtle expressions of faith, but they still inform his broad spectrum of songwriting. All of this is delivered with impressive piano pop reminiscent of Ben Folds and Gabe Dixon crossed with Scott Krippayne and Mark Schultz—the piano runs in 'People' and 'Industry' would impress even Bruce Hornsby. It's a nice alternative to all the Jack Johnson and John Mayer copycats out there. Though some of the pop songs are as predictable as average Christian adult contemporary, the strong production values by Greg Wells (Rufus Wainwright, Natasha Bedingfield) and Jamie Houston (Jessica Simpson, Macy Gray) helps elevate it. McLaughlin's considerable skills shine, enough so to make you glad that he's using his talents to reach a broader audience." JesusFreakHideout's Jessica Gregorious claimed "The debut from this Indiana-bred singer and songwriter is proof that he finished at the top of his class at Anderson University. A musician with this much talent needs not go unnoticed. ''Indiana'' is, if anything, a fresh take on a fairly overplayed genre. It was easy to fully expect another pop record with the same old thing we hear over and over, but this album offers much more than your typical ballads on love and life. ''Indiana'' is one everyone can relate to, young or old. If you were going to invest in a pop/rock record this year, look no further. Not only does Jon McLaughlin offer up piano-playing talent on a silver platter, he offers an acceptable and more artistic alternative to the likes of Gavin DeGraw and Josh Kelley." AllMusic said "Not to be confused with the innovative jazz guitarist of the same (differently spelled) name, Jon McLaughlin is a young singer-songwriter with a knack for catchy pop songs and earnest sentiments. McLaughlin's debut album ''Indiana'', named after his home state, is packed with tunes that tackle love, loss, family, and friends with all the honesty and ardor of a young troubadour setting out to make his mark with nothing but a piano and some great pop hooks. ''Indiana'' is a promising first effort from an artist who should appeal to both pop aficionados and singer-songwriter fans."

Track listing

Charts

Release history

References

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Jon McLaughlin albums
2007 debut albums
Island Records albums