A Fine Line Review

After two years, British singer, Harry Styles, finally released his new album titled ‘Fine Line’ on December 13. The record has a total of eleven tracks; however, Styles released three singles, ‘Lights Up,’ ‘Watermelon Sugar,’ and ‘Adore You,’ introducing newer sounds in comparison to his last album. 

Throughout the album, Styles sings heartfelt songs about ex-girlfriend Camille Rowe, who is a French-American model. With their relationship lasting about a year, it inspired him to delve deep into his feelings, shaping half of the songs.

For example, in ‘Cherry,’ Styles reminisces about their past, describing how he missed Rowe and envied how she had moved on to someone else. At the end of it, there is a voice audio of her speaking to Styles in French.

Despite the fact that it is seemingly loved by fans, not all of the critics have been kind. 

“Harry Styles hides himself inside of a mystic pop-rock record that keeps us away from who he is as a songwriter and fledgling rock star,” said Jeremy D. Larson from PitchFork, explaining that Styles has more potential than he is actually revealing.

“I don’t think the album is that special either,” said junior Julianni Blackford. “Everyone was hyping it up, as if they’ve never heard anything like it before, which isn’t true.”

Although there are varying opinions, that hasn’t stopped others, as well as myself, from listening. 

“I enjoyed listening to this album because it really shows his true self emotionally,” said senior Caleigh Nichols. “He is not very active on social media, so seeing this side of him is truly inspiring.”

The album is intriguing in itself and I have been listening to it ever since it came out. Compared to his last debut album, Harry Styles, you can see how his sound has changed; he experiments with different background vocals and tones. A new touch includes gospel-type vocals in an uplifting track named ‘Treat People With Kindness.’ 

However, what has not changed is his strong emotions about loneliness and heartbreak that really gets people into their feels. 

“It really puts you through an emotional rollercoaster,” said Nichols. “All of a sudden I’m jamming out to ‘Watermelon Sugar,’ and then I start crying when ‘Falling’ comes on shuffle.”

All in all, with inspirations from David Bowie, Styles pours out his raw emotions through the album. We can see his vulnerable state, taking you on an adventure of highs and lows through the past two years. Although it may not be for everybody, it’s definitely enticing to see how he has changed throughout the years; starting off in a boyband to a successful solo artist.

Check out the video for “I Adore You” here.