Stuck in Time Loops (Album Hoards for the month of May)

Well, hello, June! It's already the second half of 2017 and I am just as stoked as what the future will bring. I am still working on the travel update (was grateful to get to explore Cebu last month) and there's another that's coming up this month so I hope I don't slack (though most likely I will because, you know, life). I miss writing so much. But anyway, I've been listening to these records for a while and these are long overdue album reviews (kind of), but here it goes!

***

Harry Styles - Harry Styles

From the hallway to the dining table, I can see why some reviewers have described this album as a fan letter to the rock legends but subjectively, if you are into the genre (specifically the 70's and Brit rock), it may really feel like it sometimes.... but in a good way. You just can't help but compare it, right, but it should not stop you from enjoying the whole package. 

Top picks for me would be Kiwi, Sweet Creature and Two Ghosts.

Say, Kiwi gives me a good ol' The Beatles vibe centering on Paul McCartney's style (and as I may have previously stated, that is what Harry is to me as Zayn is to my John Lennon). It also feel like something that could be off of Arctic Monkeys earlier records (see Favourite Worst Nightmare tracks). What I am saying is, his musical influences are evident and I don't see it as something that is bad. Clearly, he is on that stage of finding what he would want to sound like apart from the band and if people would like what he has to offer. I think it's enjoyable to listen to, at least for me. It is also nice to see the creative process, especially when H talks about it on interviews. You can see why he did not jump right in and he has taken time to release the solo work (that, and because of the break due to filming). Everything feels calculated and well-thought of. 

Lyrics are not as cryptic or honest as I would have expected from him, but it is what we would want to make out of it. Pretentious at some point, cunning but also gentle and subtle (I probably am not making any sense but, yes). His PR team did a great job at promos, too; Whether it's about this bandmate (Louis Tomlinson) or Taylor Swift or whoever that they want to throw in the scene (He's never admitted nor labeled himself but let it be known that I support your preferences, Harry. Even your quirky choice in clothing *wink* Just be you.) though, I may not be a fan of that kind of PR and would rather prefer to focus on his music alone. 

I look forward to more and maybe some collaborations in the future? Heaven knows that duet with Fleetwood Mac/Stevie Nicks at one of his secret shows had me so shookt™.

It is nice to put up on a quiet night in, book on one hand and wine on another (with a turn table and vinyl to complete the whole aesthetic). And though I still think the hype towards it is overrated, I do appreciate the hardwork that he's put in it and I would 100% attend a show should he drag his solo arse in Manila sometime in the future.

PS: It is just maybe because it is my hamartia but the bass parts are badass and impressive. Kid Harpoon. Adam Prendergast. (Yes, I did Google their names. I am enamored by you.)

***

After Laughter - Paramore

If Hard Times came right after Brand New Eyes, my younger emo self would definitely not appreciate it as I may be craving for something that is remotely close to their debut and earlier records. I remember having mixed feelings towards Now before, but hearing these today I realised that the self-titled album is necessary for my musical growth as a fan. Safe to say that I have matured as their music went on from one genre to another up to what it is now (80's tinged shenanigans). I grew up with them. Experienced life as they had theirs and I think that is what has made this record more relatable than ever. Gone are the days when I would complain how their music sounded more Hayley Williams-ish rather than sounding like the actual Paramore. I am now appreciating the band's music as it is. 

We all know how they have almost called it quit as most members have left. But Paramore is back and I am ever glad for that. Zac Farro is also back. And me, just like them is still emo, just a proper upbeat.

Rose-Coloured Boy has been on an awful amount of repeat on my player these days. 26 is my ultimate jam. Forgiveness, Fake Happy, Grudges. Catchy beat, crazy riffs. Every single song hits me in the face of the realities that we all encounter every day. On that fleeting moment I realise how fitting the album title really is ("It means that look on a person’s face when they laugh really hard and then there’s this moment where they come back to reality.") and I cannot help but be amazed by how powerful words and music can be.