Harry Styles
by Harry Styles
  • Record Label: Columbia
  • Release Date: May 12, 2017
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1530 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,229 out of 1530
  2. Mixed: 84 out of 1530
  3. Negative: 217 out of 1530
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  1. melasxx
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Was looking forward to listening to his new material and I am not disappointed.
    This album is amazing in every single way. The vocals are amazing just like the lyrics and instruments. Great work from him.
  2. sweetccreature
    May 13, 2017
    10
    First time I've listened to an entire album and loved each and every song! Was really looking clear to his solo album and he hasn't dissapointed. I think my personal favourite at the moment would be meet me in the hallway- which is echoey and soothing, and only angel- looooove this one! Everyone's been talking about it. All my love to Harry!
  3. NeutralMilkH
    May 13, 2017
    8
    This is my first song review.
    Meet Me in the Hallway-9/10 (the ambient guitar and bass work is really top-notch)
    Sign of the Times-7.5/10 (I always thought it was a little overrated... but I do love the production of it otherwise) Carolina-9/10(Other than the slightly annoying "oh yeahs" that keep going throughout the song, the lyrics do a very good job of describing the "good girl,"    This is my first song review.
    Meet Me in the Hallway-9/10 (the ambient guitar and bass work is really top-notch)
    Sign of the Times-7.5/10 (I always thought it was a little overrated... but I do love the production of it otherwise)
    Carolina-9/10(Other than the slightly annoying "oh yeahs" that keep going throughout the song, the lyrics do a very good job of describing the "good girl," and the song's energy is easily pumped up through the chorus.
    Two Ghosts-8/10(As a tongue-in-cheek song that's probably about Styles' relationship with Taylor Swift, it succeeds when it comes to lyrics such as "Same white shirt" (If you look up Taylor Swift's song Style... you'll know what I'm talking about.) However, the song never really kicks past that generic country song gear, however... which may actually be mocking Swift's roots now that I think about it.)
    Sweet Creature-10/10(I don't know what it is about this song that makes it so good... maybe it's the way that Harry Styles sings "sweet creature" so sincerely... or perhaps it's the fact that the background vocals are actually a benefit to the song rather than a detriment to it... seriously, those background vocals sound fun to sing.)
    Only Angel-7/10(After a minute-long opening that sounds both epic yet cheesy, this song quickly turns into an outlandish piece of rock with guitar riffs that sound familiar, but also sound off-tempo enough as if to make this song appear original. Some provocative lyrics... but I would've liked it more without the intro... or perhaps with just a better intro. I do like that weird section of rambling towards the end.)
    Kiwi-6/10(A problem with this album is that sometimes... Harry Styles doesn't actually fit the rock and roll bill. Although he manages to come up with all of these "dirty" lyrics, his voice never seems to manage to turn them into something that actually sounds dirty. Other than that, it's slightly unoriginal but the screams (which is what Harry does best in this song) somewhat redeems this song
    Ever Since New York-9.5/10(Although quite not as gritty as the SNL version, the shades of Jeff Buckley and the unique blend of all the guitars create an amazingly interesting song with lyrics that I've already started singing to... well, it's in my vocal range. I'll stop making bad jokes now.)
    Woman-8.5/10(Man, this song is weird... but it definitely is the right blend of rock and pop for Harry considering that he manages to both sound like himself. Also... the "la-la-las" in this song is another example of background vocals that benefit Harry Styles' music. The lyrics in this song really hit their mark for the most part, almost forces the narrator to tell his story from a more "complicated" perspective.)
    From the Dining Room Table-9(This is among the songs that don't venture into pop territory, which makes the album closer feel like a much more powerful moment as "the narrator" reflects on how he misses a girl's phone calls. The way that the strings and the background vocals come into this song also make it seem more powerful and don't feel overdone. Then it ends... with just two notes. (Two notes... two people? Naw, that's a dumb theory, lol.))
    Overall: 8/10 (Once Harry figures out exactly what he's trying to go for, whether it be the tender passionate direction or the yelling bravado of weird lyrics, then maybe he'll come up with an album that's not only satisfying (like this one), but one that manages to redefine pop and rock successfully (Well... if he learns to just do whatever he wants instead of using his influences most of the time at least.))

    I know... this was a long review, but I really wanted to be specific and actually give a decent review instead of just saying that this was either good or bad. (well, for albums that are actually bad I might just do that, but for now... long reviews are the way to go. lol)    … Expand
  4. pattiecatalina
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Such a great album! All the songs are amazing! It's a great start for this young talented man. The actual golden boy! His music is giving me and old vibe and I'm honestly loving it,really looking forward to hearing more from this guy.
  5. EvangelinaK
    May 13, 2017
    10
    No words only emotions. The album is at the highest level, the wait was worth it. Such a great album! All the songs are amazing! It's a great start for this young talented man. The actual golden boy!
  6. Wael
    May 13, 2017
    8
    It's a solid move to have your debut album be a soft rock/country record after you've been in a pop boy-band since forever. And for Harry Styles, this solid move couldn't have worked better. The second the tracklist was announced, I got very hyped about this record, and in no way did it disappoint me. Styles coul've easily made a pop-EDM sort of album to make sure he'd sell, but he didn't.It's a solid move to have your debut album be a soft rock/country record after you've been in a pop boy-band since forever. And for Harry Styles, this solid move couldn't have worked better. The second the tracklist was announced, I got very hyped about this record, and in no way did it disappoint me. Styles coul've easily made a pop-EDM sort of album to make sure he'd sell, but he didn't. Instead, he drew inspiration from his rock idols and followed their steps, and the results were fruitful. Styles stands out, no longer being that 'boy that was in 1D', his vocals are on point, his lyrics are personal and relatable, and obviously, when the executive producer is Jeff Bhasker, the production is always earnestly-heartfelt and shiny. The best track on the album is 'Sweet Creature', but highlights also include 'Ever Since New York', 'Kiwi', and the closer 'From the Dining Table', ending the record on a likeable note ("maybe one day you'll call me/ and say you're sorry too"). All in all, his self-titled debut promises that Mr. Styles has a long successful career ahead of him.
    PS: The artwork is also probably one of the most beautiful album artworks this year.    … Expand
  7. giannacrespo
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Best album of this year for sure. I knew harry would do well and go for the artist route instead of the boring radio songs route! Most 1d ex-members can't relate!
  8. usandthem
    May 13, 2017
    10
    It's his debut album and Harry Styles has already left his mark. Sure, his name is already well known, but unlike his former bandmates, he has given us an unbelievable work of art that will be praised and remembered years from now. To compare this to the tuneless, worn out music from his ex-coworkers is laughable. It's only been out a day and I already look forward to his next. I can't getIt's his debut album and Harry Styles has already left his mark. Sure, his name is already well known, but unlike his former bandmates, he has given us an unbelievable work of art that will be praised and remembered years from now. To compare this to the tuneless, worn out music from his ex-coworkers is laughable. It's only been out a day and I already look forward to his next. I can't get enough. Thank you, Harry.… Expand
  9. Ginevra
    May 13, 2017
    9
    I had high expectation about this album and I must say, Harry doesn't disappoint. If I might be completely honest, I'm slightly lyrically underwhelmed, but the same lyrics actually work perfectly with the tune of every song. The transition from song to song is one of the best I've ever heard, making at the end a genuine good and complete album, nothing is missing and not one thing is tooI had high expectation about this album and I must say, Harry doesn't disappoint. If I might be completely honest, I'm slightly lyrically underwhelmed, but the same lyrics actually work perfectly with the tune of every song. The transition from song to song is one of the best I've ever heard, making at the end a genuine good and complete album, nothing is missing and not one thing is too much.
    Some might say he's unoriginal, but I've found this album a very good mix of 70's rock music and nowadays pop music, and on these days is something so different that the world of music definitely needed.    … Expand
  10. ViviennC
    May 16, 2017
    10
    The whole album proves that there's not a thing ordinary about this guy. Harry Styles is a talented young man, full of surprises. His album is one of the bests out there leaving out the mainstream pop/EDM. If you enjoy music from the past, I do think you'll have a blast with this record. It's lovely to see that rock never fades away.
  11. Rainbowror
    May 13, 2017
    10
    A great quality album! I love how its a mixture of slow, fun and a little bit of loud tracks on it, definitely worth to listen. I will definitelplaying this record alot!
  12. LedZep
    May 13, 2017
    10
    I'm honestly surprised and afraid of just how much I enjoyed this album. Its definitely surpassed my expectations. I didnt think he could do better than the brave attempt in his first single, Sign Of The Times but Mr. Styles delivers a pleasing mix of haunting ballads and rock numbers. The album compels you to play it again after its first full listen. Can see it being in the top 3 bestI'm honestly surprised and afraid of just how much I enjoyed this album. Its definitely surpassed my expectations. I didnt think he could do better than the brave attempt in his first single, Sign Of The Times but Mr. Styles delivers a pleasing mix of haunting ballads and rock numbers. The album compels you to play it again after its first full listen. Can see it being in the top 3 best albums of the year.… Expand
  13. IAmThatGuy
    May 13, 2017
    10
    This was sublime. It's lush, beautiful and a full-on emotional journey. I loved every second and keep going back for more. Gorgeous album. An absolute legend in the making is young Styles.
  14. jackiet
    May 13, 2017
    10
    quite a coincidence that if you click on most people's profile who have given this a 0 they have rated Zayn's album a 10... this is very frustrating to see that someone's work is being written off just because some people can't except that someone might do better than the person they like. it's trivial and childish-stop wasting your time, listen to the album first thanks.
  15. malina12
    May 13, 2017
    10
    From a heartbreaking song like From The Dining Table to a full on rock n roll song like Kiwi, this album is and will be the best album of the century. I wouldn't even be surprised if Harry will be nominated for a Grammy next year. This album gives out so many emotions (happiness, sadness, angst, jealousy and excitement. I absolutely love this album and I can't stop listening to it!
  16. janetJohnson
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Wow! Harry Styles' self-titled debut album truly exceeded all of my expectations. Styles takes you on a journey back to the 80's with his soft-rock inspired jams and heartfelt ballads. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of his new sound - both lyrically and musically. With this album, Harry Styles proved that he is a very mature artist who definitely knows what he's doing! The musicWow! Harry Styles' self-titled debut album truly exceeded all of my expectations. Styles takes you on a journey back to the 80's with his soft-rock inspired jams and heartfelt ballads. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of his new sound - both lyrically and musically. With this album, Harry Styles proved that he is a very mature artist who definitely knows what he's doing! The music industry needs to keep an eye on him! Very impressive debut!… Expand
  17. holg8j
    May 13, 2017
    10
    This album is so good exceeding my already very high hopes for it. People going on the basis that this is 'Harry Styles' and therefore everything he puts out is bad because he came from a boy band etc. is unfair. Preconceptions of artists and the music they make without first listening to everything they have done is frustrating. This album is incredible with different tones and sounds toThis album is so good exceeding my already very high hopes for it. People going on the basis that this is 'Harry Styles' and therefore everything he puts out is bad because he came from a boy band etc. is unfair. Preconceptions of artists and the music they make without first listening to everything they have done is frustrating. This album is incredible with different tones and sounds to each song making it stand out from the mainstream radio friendly songs written only to sell copies-it's exactly what music nowadays has been missing and it's so lovely that he's brought back this side of it.… Expand
  18. amber5331
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Anyone calling this 'ünoriginal' is honestly just being bitter because this album is anything but that. It's a breath of fresh air amongst the over-played songs that are on the radio right now. Really great job by Styles. Looking forward to what he has in store for the future
  19. Gsnickers
    May 13, 2017
    9
    I grew up liking One Direction, all the while knowing it wasn't good music by any means.

    Harry Styles' debut album, while being exactly what I expected, managed to shock me track after track. Very reminiscent of 70's rock in a lot of places, getting gradually heavier as is goes along, finding time to show of his voice as well as giving the music time to be heard; music that isn't    I grew up liking One Direction, all the while knowing it wasn't good music by any means.

    Harry Styles' debut album, while being exactly what I expected, managed to shock me track after track. Very reminiscent of 70's rock in a lot of places, getting gradually heavier as is goes along, finding time to show of his voice as well as giving the music time to be heard; music that isn't terrible EDM replayed over and over again. There's a sort of raw believability to this album that I wasn't expecting, but I always knew Harry wouldn't overly contribute to mainstream pop radio. It's short track listing while good in ways, saddened me, as it flies by, but that just gives me a good excuse to listen to it again.    … Expand
  20. queenalta
    May 13, 2017
    9
    For me this is the best album of the year, it's been a while since i never heard this kind of music i'm not talking about the genre but about the music quality. Now i understand why Harry styles was always the chosen one. He has all the combo . I really enjoyed all the tracks on this album, I give him 9/10 and i hope he'll gonna win a Grammy for this. It's not the fact that you haveFor me this is the best album of the year, it's been a while since i never heard this kind of music i'm not talking about the genre but about the music quality. Now i understand why Harry styles was always the chosen one. He has all the combo . I really enjoyed all the tracks on this album, I give him 9/10 and i hope he'll gonna win a Grammy for this. It's not the fact that you have the voice that makes you a talented person, it's the way you use it that makes the difference.Congratulations I became a fan.… Expand
  21. claudette_17
    May 13, 2017
    10
    The quality of the album is absolutely astounding. It is very different from the generic pop music that's everywhere nowadays. It has been praised not only by prestigious media outlets, but rock legends themselves which says a lot about his talent and the album itself.
  22. kennedy4280
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Absolutely incredible album. His vocals are amazing and every song is golden. HE is golden. The styles of music are varied but it all flows really well. There isn't even one song on the album thats meh, that's alright but not great. They're all so good. Also, again I say, his vocals are amazing. He sings with so much emotion and you can feel everything he feels when you listen to it. TheAbsolutely incredible album. His vocals are amazing and every song is golden. HE is golden. The styles of music are varied but it all flows really well. There isn't even one song on the album thats meh, that's alright but not great. They're all so good. Also, again I say, his vocals are amazing. He sings with so much emotion and you can feel everything he feels when you listen to it. The lyrics are mature and personal. Love it. Love the entire thing.… Expand
  23. Mary1985
    May 13, 2017
    10
    I am very impressed with Harry Styles' album, especially since it's his debut album. Unlike many albums that are released nowadays, the production of the songs is of high quality (live instrumentation) and they're very well written. The songs really tell a story. I have personally never been through heartbreak but Meet me in the hallway and From the dining table still hit me very hardI am very impressed with Harry Styles' album, especially since it's his debut album. Unlike many albums that are released nowadays, the production of the songs is of high quality (live instrumentation) and they're very well written. The songs really tell a story. I have personally never been through heartbreak but Meet me in the hallway and From the dining table still hit me very hard because he made me feel his pain. There's a lot of emotion in his voice and you can tell that he really means what he sings about. The upbeat songs like Kiwi and Only angel are absolute bangers, very rock and roll. Then you have acoustic songs like Two ghosts and Sweet creature, and fun (sexy) songs like Woman and Carolina. There's something for everyone on this album, and I think that's pretty amazing. Had high expectations after hearing Sign of the times, and he didn't let me down. Well done Harry!… Expand
  24. Nix0996
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Absolutely enjoyed this album. The production is phenomenal and all the instrumentation is great. Have already listened to it straight through 4 times. Surround sound is the best for this album. The album flows very well song to song and I can a lot of thought was put into the order. Been wanting an album like this for a while. Glad to have it. Will be on repeat for the next couple months.Absolutely enjoyed this album. The production is phenomenal and all the instrumentation is great. Have already listened to it straight through 4 times. Surround sound is the best for this album. The album flows very well song to song and I can a lot of thought was put into the order. Been wanting an album like this for a while. Glad to have it. Will be on repeat for the next couple months. Couple favorites (really they're all my favorite ): Kiwi, Only Angel, Woman to name a few.… Expand
  25. kiana
    May 13, 2017
    9
    A stray away from all preceding One Direction albums, I truly believe Styles has developed his own personal and more mature sound with his solo debut. Heavily inspired by his icons, Styles has taken the classic 70's british rock sound and revitalized, while adding his own special flare that only he could provide. Songs such as Woman and Kiwi truly showcase Styles' maturity and have a majorA stray away from all preceding One Direction albums, I truly believe Styles has developed his own personal and more mature sound with his solo debut. Heavily inspired by his icons, Styles has taken the classic 70's british rock sound and revitalized, while adding his own special flare that only he could provide. Songs such as Woman and Kiwi truly showcase Styles' maturity and have a major "sex and rock +roll" vibe to them while songs like From the Dining Room Table and Two Ghosts make your heart ache and its hard not to sympathize with the young and evidently heartbroken singer. The real showstopper however is the lead single Sign of the Times. With such raw beauty and authenticity, there are very songs that have been performed with more passion than this one. Overall, I love everything about the album, from the genre, to the inspiration behind it, and to the personality and genuinity it holds. In fact, my only critique is that I wish it was longer.… Expand
  26. Liliia
    May 13, 2017
    10
    90% negative reviews in this section with "0" from Zayn's fans. It is ridiculous! Are you have nothing to do? Even if you're not a fan of Harry or his album, this album totally doesn't deserve 0. And to me, it is sad to see how fans of the different artist doing stuff like that. Your score will not change anything. The album is great and people seems to like it. Whatever you want it or90% negative reviews in this section with "0" from Zayn's fans. It is ridiculous! Are you have nothing to do? Even if you're not a fan of Harry or his album, this album totally doesn't deserve 0. And to me, it is sad to see how fans of the different artist doing stuff like that. Your score will not change anything. The album is great and people seems to like it. Whatever you want it or not. Go and support your artist and don't do the collective spam on the page of the debut album by ex band-mate your fav singer.

    This is great album. 8.5/10. Deserve a listen for sure. Will give it a 10 and I already told why.    … Expand
  27. vreid1
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Absolutely amazing album! I'm so amazed by how he branched away from the usual pop generic music and created this album. He has definitely fulfilled my expectations as a solo artist. From the lyrics to the vocals he totally did it for me. Looking forward to whatever he has to put out in the future!
  28. Ele52
    May 13, 2017
    10
    I think the best aspect of this album is that it is original: nobody is doing this type of music right now. It's a breathe of fresh air in a moment in which we are forced to listen to rap music and R&B all the time. The music world needed this and I'm so proud of Harry for being true to himself, even if it meant going against what the general public seems to like at the moment.
    On another    I think the best aspect of this album is that it is original: nobody is doing this type of music right now. It's a breathe of fresh air in a moment in which we are forced to listen to rap music and R&B all the time. The music world needed this and I'm so proud of Harry for being true to himself, even if it meant going against what the general public seems to like at the moment.
    On another note, it's sad to see so many bad reviews written by jealous people who didn't even listen to the album, that only want to make Harry seem bad in order to make their favorite (also known as Zayn, Harry's ex band mate) seem better. A bad review written by an anonymous person hiding behind a screen won't change the course of music.    … Expand
  29. alecse
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Amazing! The best debut album from an artist in ages. He's doing great and i'm proud of how Harry sounds like he's not doing this because of sales, but because that's what he loves.
  30. Marlyjay
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Harry Styles is like nothing out there at the moment, it's hard to imagine a 23 year old with the weight of a misconception about being in a boyband could write something this soul baring, honest, dark at times and just plain fun. You can hear his influences all through the album without feeling like he's copying or trying to be something he's not, it's all harry styles, the high notes andHarry Styles is like nothing out there at the moment, it's hard to imagine a 23 year old with the weight of a misconception about being in a boyband could write something this soul baring, honest, dark at times and just plain fun. You can hear his influences all through the album without feeling like he's copying or trying to be something he's not, it's all harry styles, the high notes and screams in the rockier tunes, the low vocals and slight break in his voice in the more somber songs, his honesty is consistent all through. In addition to going against all norms while putting out a debut album, he managed to capture true feelings, without sounding fake or whiny. It's an album I can enjoy whatever mood I'm in, because there is a song for every mood. And with Harry's stage presence, I can only imagine how some of these songs will sound live. A true treat, an appropriate nod to the old times, and a beautiful vision for times to come. Good job, Harry.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Most Discussed Album of 2017
48
#48 Most Shared Album of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
68

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 24
  3. Negative: 1 out of 24
  1. Q Magazine
    Jun 6, 2017
    60
    Despite Styles' self-conscious references, his debut avoids indulgence. [Aug 2017, p.110]
  2. The Line of Best Fit
    May 23, 2017
    80
    Ultimately Harry Styles feels comfortable and readily worn-in.
    Read full review
  3. Consequence
    May 18, 2017
    58
    The missteps don’t detract too much from this ambitious, if slightly unfocused, debut.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »