There’s always been rock influence in One Direction’s music, but it really comes to the forefront on “Midnight Memories'” title track. Production-wise, its sound is firmly rooted in modern pop, though this is still a song that plenty of parents of One Direction fans should appreciate. This week’s One Direction cover story compared it to the Police - a fitting pick, especially in the verses. On a track like this, one can hear One Direction’s sound carefully shifting from straight-up pop to more of a pop-rock feel. If “Best Song Ever” is the new album’s “Live While We’re Young,” this song - the album’s softer, acoustic-based single - is definitely its “Little Things.” Ed Sheeran didn’t have a hand in this somber love song, but it sure sounds like it, thanks to writing and lyrical contributions from every member of the band. When the boys hit the “oh oh oh” and “yeah yeah yeah” parts, you’re in bubblegum pop bliss. The way “Best Song Ever’s” massive chorus bobs along with tight group harmonies makes the song sneakily sound like its two predecessors. Of course, One Direction’s previous lead singles - “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Live While We’re Young” - were immediate successes, so it certainly had history on its side. This is the sort of song you just know is going to be a hit the first time you hear it. Lyrically, the boys remain in the PG-rated themes of young love, heartbreak, and staying out late, so parents (and the music industry) can rest assured they’re still tween-friendly. One Direction proves once again that there is more Jonas Brothers than *NSYNC or Backstreet Boys in their boy band DNA, and given their increased role in the writing process (the band contributed lyrics to 12 of the 14 songs), perhaps the rock band vibe will be an even greater theme as the band grows up. Guitars feature more prominently in the new songs, whether they’re loud and electric (“Little Black Dress”), soft and acoustic (“Story of My Life”), or of the fast-strumming, Mumford & Sons variety (“Happily”). In general terms, “Midnight Memories” doesn’t sound like much of a departure from its predecessors, but a closer look reveals hints as to what lies ahead. One Direction Cover Story: Read The ‘Midnight Memories’ Q&Aįor a band comprised of 19- to 21-year-olds, growth is going to be a key theme.
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