The singer’s third studio album has a pleasing summery tone to it that shows him growing in confidence in the type of music he wants to create.
Balancing traditional pop sound with plenty of personality on display along the way, it has to be said that Louis Tomlinson’s latest album has plenty of confidence and quality to it to make for pleasing listening.
From the sharp and edgy sounding ‘Lemonade’ which oozes in style and grit to the gorgeously toned ‘Sunflowers’, there is a great variety of songs on this album that highlights the fact the former One Direction singer wants to explore and experiment with the type of music that he produces. In these songs among others you can tell how carefully constructed each song has been.
A particular standout track is ‘Dark to Light’, a beautiful acoustic styled song that capture Tomlinson’s sense of vulnerability and openness. It has been widely interpreted as his tribute to Liam Payne, the way in which it explores survivors guilt and attempts to help someone you care for. It is raw, sincere and powerful to listen to.
Elsewhere, songs such as ‘On Fire’ and ‘Sanity’ feels as though he is stamping home that he still has plenty to prove and determination to succeed. There is real power in these songs – even if lyrically it feels a little bit safe, particularly evidenced on ‘Lazy’ which is easy to listen to but overall feels a little bit basic musically and lyrically.
He is at his best when there is a bit of an edge to his tone and musically. Songs such as ‘Jump the Gun’ and ‘Palaces’ (which would be extremely rousing to hear performed live) are solid proof of this.
As an album, How Did I Get Here? is tight and concise, no song feeling as though it outstays its welcome. It has been well crafted and a lot of care and attention has been clearly put into its construction.
Overall, there is plenty to enjoyed here particularly as we enter the summer months in which this album feels perfect time to listen to it.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️