Fine Line Album Review

"Maybe, we can find a place to feel good, and we can treat people with kindness" - 'Treat People With Kindness'

Harry Styles burst onto the solo scene with his first self-titled album, Harry Styles in 2017 and shattered records. He shattered even more records with this album. Fine Line was one of the biggest albums of 2019, and for good reason!

This album has something for everyone. From the hauntingly beautiful and heartbreaking ballads like 'Falling', to radio hits like 'Watermelon Sugar', 'Adore You' and 'Lights Up', each have their own unique flavour, and the first half of the album itself has its listeners hooked. 'Golden' has incredible harmonies, coupled with an incredibly catchy sound that is the best kind of earworm. 'Cherry', while lamenting the loss of someone you love, is elevated by the well-timed accompaniment of different instruments at different times. The first half makes the album seem like classic pop with hooks that can't get out of your head and occasionally, a ballad that hits all the emotional beats.

The second half is where this album truly shines. 'To Be So Lonely' has captivating guitar strumming from the very beginning and its simplicity makes it a true gem of a song. 'She' was one of the biggest surprises of the year with a truly gorgeous guitar solo that goes on for 2 whole minutes, and yet, you never want it to stop. 'Sunflower, Vol 6' feels so restless and yet it drags you along willingly for the whole ride. 'Canyon Moon' makes you do a double-take with its simple yet prominent country vibe and you can't help but smile through the whole song. 'Treat People With Kindness' is a bouncy rock song, backed by a truly talented group vocal which has you nodding your head along, both in agreement with the lyrics and the catchy song itself. The album's title track, Fine Line, ends the album on a high note. The lyrics jump between contradictory themes: hate and love, lows and highs. It is a perfect symbol for the entire album and Styles' contradictory emotions, and is a truly fitting title for both the song and the album.

Overall, I would rate the album a solid 9.4/10 and I would highly recommend it to anyone who's just a fan of music. There's at least one song on the album for everyone and it is one of the best albums I have heard in the last few years.