Recommended Tracks: Kill My Mind, Always You, Perfect Now
Artists You May Like: Austin Mahone, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes
Over the past few years, the boys of One Direction have been establishing themselves as solo artists by releasing their own music. Now, Louis Tomlinson is the last of the boys to officially release a debut album, giving us a glimpse into his somewhat-private life. Full of sentimentality and sanguinity, Walls shows us how to strive for the light during some of our most guarded moments.
The album has a dynamic start with “Kill My Mind,” which is about finding someone who makes your worries disappear. After hearing some of the other tracks on Walls, this is a clear stand-out. The track’s carefree vibes establish it as more upbeat and rambunctious, pulling us up from some of the darker places we find ourselves on the album. In addition, the full choruses and various rhythmic accompaniment gives “Kill My Mind” a classic pop rock edge that is not really found on the other tracks; it is a bold beginning.
In contrast, there are several songs on Walls that are very deep and moving, making the album all the more powerful. Right after “Kill My Mind” is the more relaxed “Don’t Let It Break Your Heart.” This is the first of many inspirational tracks on the album, reminding us that the bad times we have in life do not need to hold us down. We also have “Two of Us,” written in honor of Louis’s late mother. On this track, Louis sings about living life to the fullest, vowing “I will be the best of me / Always keep you next to me / I’ll be living one life for the two of us.”
Three of my favorite tracks occur towards the end of the album and embody different aspects of Walls: youth, strength, and love. The first is “Always You,” which is reminiscent of a classic One Direction bop. The electric guitar and the surprise change of tempo in the chorus makes it lively and playful – a lighter reflection of the album. The next track, “Fearless,” is more of a slow power ballad that taps into the invincibility we experience in our youth. It serves as a reminder that we can all feel that way, despite our age and what we are experiencing. The last track is “Perfect Now,” which is about praising someone for their imperfections. It is a simple sentiment, but it holds a lot of value.
Closing out Walls is “Only the Brave,” which could almost serve as an intro to the album instead of as an outro, providing us with a memorable ending. It focuses on finding love, but manages to summarize the different messages, topics, and themes that are present on the album. Louis sings, “All the lonely shadow dances from the cradle to the grave / It’s a solo song and it’s only for the brave.”
Basically, I am in love with this debut album from Louis. It is a perfect album for anyone needing to feel comfort, love, inspiration, encouragement – I can go on and on. We are taken on such an emotional journey, only to come out stronger. Louis has solidified his individual identity as an artist, showing us how much he has grown from his One Direction days, but still highlights some of the more innocent moments from that time. Add this to your February playlist ASAP!
You can check out Walls on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
Catch Louis on tour here.
Keep up with Louis Tomlinson: Twitter // Instagram // Facebook // Website
