British pop artist Harry Styles released his fourth studio album, “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.” on March 6. Styles released his single “Aperture” on Jan. 23 as the first of 12 tracks, debuting in first place on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Aperture”
As the first song released by Styles in over four years, “Aperture” introduces a new electro-pop sound to his discography. With lyrics “We belong togethеr. It finally appears it’s only love,” this song presents the theme of unity for the album and tour, bringing fans together for the big release in March.
“American Girls”
The second track “American Girls” continues to bring high energy and good vibes. Styles wrote this song about the loneliness he felt after watching his three closest friends getting married — fulfilling moments attached with lifetime commitment as Styles is yet to get married. This is aptly represented by the chorus, “‘I’ve known you for ages,’ it’s all that I’ve heard. My friends are in love with American girls,” as Styles is being left behind by his friends.
“Taste Back”
This song captures the essence of familiarity, unraveling the complex feelings that resurface when a person from the past reappears. It confronts the choice between nostalgia and leaving someone behind with bittersweet lyrics, “Must be lonely out in Paris if you talk like that. It was tough with the time, but you called me back. Did you get your taste back? Or do you just need a little lovе?” The catchy chorus is rather comforting with its repetitive phrasing, highlighting the ease of falling back into old patterns despite knowing better.
“Paint By Numbers”
Highly speculated by fans to be about the death of his old bandmate in One Direction, Liam Payne, “Paint By Numbers” is milder compared to its counterparts. Its somber tone is similar to many of Styles’ initial sounds in both “Harry Styles” and “Fine Line.” This emotional track could potentially be paying homage to Payne with lines like, “It’s a lifetime of picking from one or the other. Kids with water guns, watch them run,” alluding to water gun fights he had with his old bandmates.
“Carla’s Song”
As the concluding song on the album, “Carla’s Song” is a mix of all the sounds throughout the album. It begins with Styles’ soothing vocals backed by a strong synth. The lyrics focus on discovery and experience for the listener: “Can you hear that voice delivering the news? It’s all waiting there for you.” It opens a realm of possibility and positivity,ending the album on an optimistic note.
“Fine Line” and “Harry’s House,” Styles’ past two albums showcased mellow pieces and upbeat pieces respectively. “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally,” combined both sounds creating a cohesive discography for Styles, meshing his different sounds together. This album left fans wanting more of his iconic lyrics and catchy tunes. Styles will begin his residency-style tour “Together, Together” on May 16 after playing “Harry Styles. One Night in Manchester.” on March 6.
