Harry Styles is back with a new album, 'Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally', and it's a groovy, synth-filled journey that feels both familiar and fresh. After a four-year hiatus, the British singer-songwriter is ready to take us on a musical adventure, blending disco, pop, and rock influences with his signature style. So, let's dive into the 12 tracks and explore what makes this album a must-listen.
A New Chapter
The album's opening track, 'Aperture', sets the tone for the entire record. It's a six-minute synth-filled journey that explores the dichotomy of knowing what you don't know and embracing the unknown. The song's message of belonging and love is a perfect introduction to the album's themes, and the disco-inspired production is a delightful surprise.
A Blend of Styles
'American Girls' is a catchy, fun track that feels like a warm-up for the rest of the album. It's a blend of his past albums, with a cheeky chorus that will get stuck in your head. However, it's unlikely to be a fan favorite, as the rest of the album is more intriguing.
Disco and Pop
'Ready Steady Go!' is where the album really starts to pick up, with a dreamy pop-rock sound and a funky vocal effect. It's a catchy, upbeat track that will have you singing along. 'Are You Listening Yet?' follows suit, with a frenetic, guitar-heavy sound that feels like a check-in with the listener. The song's funky, borderline spoken-word verses make it a memorable standout.
Love and Introspection
'Taste Back' is a spiritually Vampire Weekend-esque track that explores love and the need for more of it. The song's bridge is a standout moment, with lyrics that will resonate with many. 'The Waiting Game' offers a slower pace with interesting synth-pop moments, and it feels like a self-reflective song about celebrity life. The song's outro is beautiful, and it's a great moment of introspection.
Trippy and Groovy
'Season 2 Weight Loss' is a trippy electro-pop track with a distorted voice effect. It's a groovy song that sits among the album's more dance-oriented tracks. 'Coming Up Roses' is a romantic, grand track with a waltz beat that would be perfect for a romance film. It's a unique song that deviates from the established sonic formula.
Fun and Catchy
'Pop' is a top-two contender for most fun, with echoes of 'pop!' littered throughout the song. It's a disco and synth-pop track that will get stuck in your head. 'Dance No More' is a downright groovy track that pays off the promise of disco-infused tracks laid out by 'Aperture'. It has catchy lyrics, a dynamite outro, and a rock-laced beat, making it a standout on the record.
Reflection and Calm
'Paint By Numbers' is a reflective track with an acoustic guitar, and it feels like a song that would be envisioned after a leisurely trip. It showcases a calmer side of Styles, and the song's opening lyric is a beautiful moment of self-awareness. 'Carla's Song' closes the album with a dreamy space between melancholy and hopefulness, and it's a perfect ending to the record.
Takeaway
'Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally' is a groovy, synth-filled journey that feels both familiar and fresh. It's a blend of disco, pop, and rock influences that will appeal to a wide audience. The album is a testament to Styles' versatility and his ability to create a cohesive and engaging listening experience. So, turn it up and let the music take you on a journey!