Featuring powerful synths and smooth vocals, Harry Styles’ long-awaited album “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.” was released March 6. Although the record’s mix of nostalgia and dance-pop makes it enticing at first, it is ultimately repetitive and not particularly memorable.
While I am not a huge fan of Styles, my love for “Harry’s House”—especially tracks like “Matilda,” “Daylight” and “Grapejuice”—had me curious about the new release. Nevertheless, the first time I attempted to listen to the album, I had to turn it off because I was so bored. The songs dragged on without much variety or momentum to keep me engaged. Overall, Styles’ voice fell flat, and the album’s overpowering instrumentals drowned out any emotional depth he tried to add.
The album title was what first caught my eye: it felt like a bold statement. I think this album is Styles’ attempt to step away from his previous reputation as a basic pop star and try to explore more complex themes. He succeeded at the branding aspect but failed with the general sound and production of the album.
I was ultimately disappointed by “Aperture,” the lead single released late January. Despite my excitement after hearing snippets of it on social media, it did not live up to my expectations. Styles’ music has always had a raw and genuine kick to it, which “Aperture” lacked. While I found the drum beat catchy, the vocals were underwhelming.
I also did not enjoy the song “Season 2 Weight Loss.” While I think the production of the song is fine, the message behind it is questionable. When speaking to Zane Lowe for Apple Music, Styles explained the song is an observation of how after a TV show blows up on Netflix, the cast will return for the next season noticeably thinner and more muscular. Styles could have portrayed this concept more thoughtfully. He described the phenomenon as though being overweight is unattractive, which sends a negative message, especially in a society already obsessed with body image.
I think the songs that are meant to be energetic fall flat, but Styles does a nice job on the slower tracks. My absolute favorite song off the album is “Paint By Numbers.” It is a breath of fresh air from the faster paced songs, containing just bare vocals and acoustic guitar. There is also a lingering sadness to it that feels like reminiscing on past memories or experiences.
At first listen, I really did not like the album’s 10th track, “Dance No More.” Because of the previous songs that had disappointed me, I was not in the right headspace to appreciate it. However, once I gave it a second chance, its catchy vibe grew on me.
Overall, “Kiss All the Time. Disco Occasionally.” reflects where pop music is today. It is polished and nostalgic but is too safe to have any lasting impact on the music industry. The album has some solid songs and has appealing branding but lacks an emotional punch compared to Styles’ previous albums. It feels like an album made for people who already like Styles, not one that tries to challenge and surprise its listeners.
Published and digitized April 2026.
