Initially, I approached Harry Styles’ new album with a degree of hesitation. The first single, “Aperture,” didn’t immediately resonate, requiring multiple listens to fully appreciate its unique energy. This left me cautiously optimistic, yet bracing for potential disappointment with “Kiss All The Time. Disco Occasionally.”
My apprehension quickly dissolved. From the very first beat, Harry delivers on the album’s promise – a vibrant exploration of dance music, infused with a confidence that’s utterly captivating. It’s a journey you willingly surrender to, a sonic landscape that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
“Aperture” now feels like the perfect introduction, a gateway to this bolder, dance-infused era. It’s a shift that’s likely to spark debate among fans, a departure that sets this record apart from everything he’s done before.
The initial reaction to “Aperture” – labeled as ‘techno’ by some – was understandable confusion. While it’s grown into a welcome addition, it’s arguably not the album’s strongest track. However, if you embrace the dance undertones of “Aperture,” the rest of the album builds upon that foundation, adding an edge Harry hasn’t previously explored.
He doesn’t abandon his pop roots, though. Tracks like “American Girls” echo the feel of “Fine Line,” blending those beloved melodies with a driving dance beat. Hints of “Harry’s House” also linger, creating a sense of evolution rather than a complete reinvention.
Where his previous work often evoked a melancholic mood through pop-funk and synths, this album is designed to move you. It’s a deliberate shift towards disco and electronic sounds, radiating pure, unadulterated joy.
“Pop” feels like a spiritual successor to “Watermelon Sugar,” inheriting its infectious energy but maturing into a sexier, synth-soaked anthem. The album as a whole exudes a newfound sensuality, a confidence born from critical acclaim and a willingness to embrace influences like David Bowie.
Each of the twelve tracks feels carefully considered, contributing to a cohesive and consistently high-quality experience. You can hear the influence of his time spent traveling, absorbing the energy of Europe and simply living life to the fullest.
There’s a lightness to the album, a sense of momentum that feels particularly welcome right now. It’s an uplifting force, a much-needed escape from the weight of the world.
Harry taps into a fragile optimism, a feeling that’s been slowly emerging in recent years. This isn’t the era of fleeting, cynical trends; it’s the dawn of something brighter, a “Kissco Spring” after a long winter.
Throughout the album, he fearlessly experiments with his songwriting, seamlessly transitioning between catchy, hook-driven tracks and more introspective moments. “Are You Listening Yet” showcases this, blending spoken word with moments of pure musical expression, featuring the powerful vocals of House Gospel Choir.
The choir’s unique blend of house music and gospel elevates the album, transforming it from pop-dance into something truly anthemic. “Taste Back” strikes a perfect balance between Harry’s past and present, a confident track that speaks to the complexities of modern relationships.
He revisits the theme of transactional connections in “Season 2 Weight Loss,” delivering the poignant line “holding, hoping you will love me now” with a stylized, autotuned vocal. But the album isn’t solely focused on heartbreak and fleeting encounters.
“Coming Up Roses” is a surprising and beautiful addition, a modern waltz that feels both intimate and grand. It’s a song built for the stage, destined to become a fan favorite. The orchestral arrangement swells behind Harry’s vocals, creating a truly captivating moment.
Surprisingly, this emotive track doesn’t feel out of place alongside the disco-infused beats. It coexists seamlessly, demonstrating Harry’s skill in crafting a cohesive and dynamic soundscape. He avoids repetition and maintains a level of artistry that’s truly impressive.
The album culminates in “Carla’s Song,” a fitting credits-roll moment that brings together the album’s signature synths and stylized vocals. It’s a satisfying conclusion to a journey that’s both exhilarating and emotionally resonant.
“Kiss All The Time. Disco Occasionally” is undeniably seductive, inviting you into Harry’s world without alienating those who prefer to simply tap their feet. It’s a narrative about love, joy, and the freedom to embrace the moment.
It’s a reminder that it’s okay to be messy, to revel in the optimism of a night out, something we’ve all been craving in a world of venue closures and digital connections. This album feels like a cultural shift, a promise of hope, and a permission slip to dance like nobody’s watching.
Harry Styles has taken a significant risk with this new sound, and it has unequivocally paid off. “Aperture” opens the door, but “Kiss All The Time. Disco Occasionally” is a full-blinding beam of sunshine. It’s time for Kissco Spring to bloom.
