Okay, so before I talk about Niall Horan's new single "This Town", I'd like to point out to all fellow One Direction fans that while I am excited that Niall has taken his first big step in music as a solo artist, I am equally heartbroken as you all.
For those wondering why I would be so upset, It's simply because Niall's single represents the end of yet another boy band era. His single release is confirmation that 1D is no more... (insert moment of silence for all devoted fans).
On a positive note! NIALL IS BACK LADIES & GENTS! Yup, the Blonde Irish heartthrob has graced us with his musical talents and given the world a blessing. Okay, maybe I'm over exaggerating but it's that good. I'll go ahead and break it down for you but please note: this is such a beginner's review and it's probably just gonna be me "fangirling" over Niall. You've been warned!
My Initial Reaction To The News
I have to give credit to my boyfriend Nathan for sending me multiple messages while I was in class on Thursday about how Niall had released a new song that was not affiliated with One Direction.
I FREAKED OUT - silently of course - because I was in class but I was on cloud nine nonetheless. My first instinct after this was to check his twitter for any sign that what I was seeing was real or if this was a sick joke from Nathan.
I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the load icon to hurry up and do its job (it was taking longer than usual - damn you Fresno State Wifi).
Finally, after what seemed like forever, his twitter header was on my Chromebook screen and there, in front of my face, was the best thing since Zayn's Album release.
My Initial Reaction To The Song
Unfortunately, on Thursday I didn't get home until 9:30PM and so I had to spend seven grueling hours in and out of classes; suffering for not being able to hear "This Town" immediately.
When I finally got to it, all I can say is that it was worth the wait. Niall's voice fits so well with the whole Folk music genre and it helps that his voice is a little coarse and that he still has a slight accent.
I love that he's decided to go very vulnerable with his music because it allows his audience to become very personal with him and get to know him on a deeper level than just the boy band look we have always know him for.
The Music: A Basic Breakdown
The music itself is very simple.
I'm no music major but I'm pretty sure there are only two chords in the whole song. It set a very calm and melancholy tone to the whole which is something that seems contrast but suit Niall's personality because he is so vibrant and energetic.
So onto the important part: the lyrics.
Can I just say that I never expected Niall to be so somber and personal which is why it seems to work for him!
The lyrics tell the story of a guy who basically wishes he could go back in time and have a relationship with a girl from his past because it seems like better times.
While this kind of song has been recycled many times before, Niall does a good job on setting the tone of the song and making his listeners feel moved and it is easy for them to make personal connections to the song.
Overall, this song is a big step for Niall in his music career and I'd like to hope that there will be big things for him. While there will forever be haters looking to bring upcoming solo artists like him down, he has the support of many including myself.
Please, if you haven't already, check out his new single "This Town" on Spotify, Itunes, or his website niallhoran.com.
I'm forever proud of you Niall!!