The 1975, Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America | Track Review 🎵

The 1975, assisted by Phoebe Bridgers highlight Christianity and sexuality add odds on the thoughtful “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America.”

“I’m in love with Jesus Christ / He’s so nice.”  Honestly, a lot of people are Matthew Healy, but we all know that you are an atheist/secular humanist, so… what gives?  The front man of The 1975 actually isn’t speaking about his religious beliefs as much as the character he portrays on “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America,” the millionth (not literally) advance single from Notes on a Conditional Form.  Featuring uncredited vocals by Phoebe Bridgers, “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” tackles faith and sexuality.

So, the opening lyric from “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” comes off incredibly spiritual – quite Christian.  However, the issue comes into play on the second verse, with Bridgers assisting: “I’m in love with a boy I know / But that’s a feeling I can never show.”  Why can’t he show it? Well, there’s been plenty of friction between being homosexual and Christian.  Bridges has her own moment where sexuality comes to the forefront:

“I’m in love with the girl next door
Her name’s Claire
Nice when she comes ‘round to call
Then masturbate the second she’s not there.”

Wow.  Of course, because both Healy and Bridgers are Christian (in the context) of the song, ‘it’s all good’ – NOT. The chorus is clearly the centerpiece of this alternative, singer/songwriter record.

“Fortunately, I believe, lucky me
Searching for planes in the sea, and that’s irony
Soil just needs water to be, and a seed
So, if we can turn into a tree, can I be the leaves?”

Final Thoughts 

The 1975 are never dull, that’s for sure.  “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” marks another contrast from the British band – one I certainly didn’t expect. The best part of this record is the lyricism and theme. Religion, particularly Christianity, and sexuality have been at odds forever.  Give Heally and Bridgers credit for successfully highlighting it.  The sound of the record is a selling point as well, though not the defining feature.  All in all, an engaging, thoughtful record.

The 1975 • Notes on a Conditional Form • Interscope • Release: 5.22.20

Photo Credit: Interscope