Making the transition from a world-famous boyband to being a solo star isn’t easy – just ask Harry Styles.
He described his first album as “bowling with the bumpers up, playing it safe”, conscious perhaps of not alienating his legions of One Direction fans.
And while his second solo effort was, in his own words, “freer”, he couldn’t totally be himself .
But as he releases Harry’s House, he’s finally found his own voice.
The 13 songs are his most personal, intimate and, I daresay, controversial yet as he navigates subjects such as lost loves, sex, drink and drugs.
In Satellite, a tender ode to an unrequited love, Harry reminisces: “We share the last line, then we drink the wine.”
And he returns to the same theme in Daylight as he pines for an ex. “You were just doing cocaine in my kitchen, you never listen. I hope you’re missing me by now.”
Then there are tales of wild house parties (Little Freak), lazily drinking wine in the garden (Grape Juice)… and even “comedown speed” (Daylight).
The album never falters musically. It veers seamlessly from dreamy, 70s pop (Boyfriends) to funky Prince-inspired numbers (Music for a Sushi Restaurant).
Harry has previously told how the pandemic had forced him to finally stop working and reflect upon his life.
That such a vulnerable, honest album should follow would suggest he’s done just that.
Star rating: 5/5
Harry’s House – Track-by-track
1. Music For A Sushi Restaurant – Prince-inspired trumpets and bass
2. Late Night Talking – A nod to new love Olivia Wilde?
3. Grape Juice - Dreamy, lo-fi vibes
4. As it Was - First single; sound of the summer already
5. Daylight - Spaced-out, chemical highs
6. Little Freak - Perfect pop, the end of a night
7. Matilda - Simple guitars, builds to a soaring crescendo
8. Cinema - Dialling up the bass / funk
9. Daydreaming – Soul with a Spanish flavour
10. Keep Driving - A poppy love-letter
11. Satellite – trippy LA loneliness
12. Boyfriends – Fleetwood Mac, 70s-infused vibe
13. Love Of My Life – Tender ode to an ex
- Harry's House is out later this week
