One Direction: FOUR | Album Review

By: Alexandrea van Huizen

English-Irish band, One Direction have just released their fourth studio album, aptly named- 'FOUR'. The inter-webs were abuzz when the band decided to tease their new album by releasing the track 'Fireproof' for free download on their official website back in September of this year. In a video message, the guys thanked their fans for standing by and supporting them since the very beginning and also talked about how releasing 'Fireproof' for free was their own way of showing their gratitude. 

It is undeniable from this album that One Direction have evolved musically and have really found their sound as a band. Moving on from their cookie-cutter boyband image during their debut back in 2011, it is clear now that the boys of One Direction have really grown into men. The songs in this album are more mature and more from the heart. The band have cited personal experiences as their number one motivation when writing the songs. As with most albums, 'FOUR' features a range of tracks from happy dance hits to a few slightly more toned-down ones. 

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It comes as no surprise that Ed Sheeran, who is one of the biggest selling artistes out there and also a close friend to the band, lent a hand in writing this beautiful ballad.  There's just something about the soft guitar strums, the lyrics and the way the guys sing with such true emotion that will keep you hooked. 
Where Do Broken Hearts Go
When asked during an interview what their favourite songs off 'FOUR' were, Niall and Zayn both agreed that this track was definitely it. The track has a very nostalgic vibe to it. This song was co-written by band member, Harry Styles with the help of a few other songwriters including Teddy Geiger who is also one of the co-producers of the album.  Illusion
Illusion
A slightly more up-tempo song, this bonus track has a beautiful backstory to it. Liam Payne was having a casual conversation with another writer, Julian Bunetta, about their girlfriends when Julian had the great idea of writing a song based on the stuff Liam was telling him about his girlfriend, Sophia Smith. Fellow band member, Niall Horan, also had a part to play in writing this song while Liam contributed the melody. 
Fool's Gold
One of the few rare tracks where all five members wrote the song together. This song will tuck at everyone's heartstrings only for the simple fact that no matter who you are, you will definitely relate to it. In this one, they sing about unrequited love and not letting go even though it's hopeless to keep hanging on. 
Night Changes
Another one of the rare songs that all the guys wrote together, 'Night Changes' will be the second single off the album. They have already  filmed the music video for it and it is set to be released in a few days' time- on the 21st of this month. Interestingly enough, the band filmed the entire music video separately, which is a first for them. It is also Harry Styles' favourite track off the album. In the music video, each of the guys will show you what it's like to go on a date with them. Sounds interesting! While you patiently wait for the music video to arrive, watch this clip of them singing an acoustic version of 'Night Changes'. 

One Direction has done it once again with 'FOUR', all the tracks are so unique and well executed. It is extremely evident from this album that this band are breaking barriers everywhere by exceeding all the expectations. The band have said that this is probably their best album to date and we can't agree more with them. Don't write these guys off just yet, they will be here for the long-haul. One Direction will begin their next worldwide tour called 'On the Road Again' soon, where one of the shows will be held right here in Singapore on March 11 2015. Download 'FOUR' from the iTunes store or grab your physical copy off the shelves in any music store near you.