Boy band develops their sound
One Direction
Four
Columbia Records
As the title suggests, Four is the fourth studio album by popular English and Irish boy band One Direction. While the songs on this album are quite similar to their previous releases, the group’s music has improved a little and sounds a bit more grown up.
There are no drastic changes to be heard here, but the songs sound a bit more serious than the pure teen pop releases of the group’s early years. One factor that has improved One Direction’s sound is the use of more live musical instrumentation. There are also some country and folk music influences present on the album. An example of this pop country style can be heard on the slightly retro-sounding song, “Fireproof.”
Another interesting track is “Steal My Girl,” a medium tempo song featuring a catchy chorus melody. The popular, sweet single “Night Changes” is another album highlight.
Overall, Four is a fine album that One Direction’s fans will enjoy — especially the fans who have grown up with the group since the beginning. — VH
Vocabulary
- drastic (adj): extreme in a way that has a sudden, serious or violent effect on something
factor (n): one of several things that cause or influence something
present (adj): existing in a particular place or thing
