Harry’s House – Harry Styles
Other than the weird imagery seen within the videos for this album’s singles, I’ve chosen this because it’s a good pop album. There’s a lot of catchiness to it, it’s well written and produced and tells a story – though, unlike other concept albums, the story is in reverse order. You can dance and cry to it – for some songs, at the same time.
Datura – Boston Manor
It’s short and sweet. According to the band, part 1 of an album which is a clever method of song writing. They’ve clearly put time and effort into the album, which has worked in their favour as every second of the album is perfected.
5SOS5 – 5 Seconds of Summer
There’s always been so much discourse on if 5SOS are a boyband or not. I don’t really care, but I do think they should get more credit as a pop punk band – especially with their older stuff, but still, there’s still a touch of alternative/indie music within this album. It’s also really good if you want a cry, newer 5SOS much has been my go-to if I want a sulk this year. Let’s not discredit the positive songs, though – I fall in love again with my partner every time I hear Complete Mess. I also got to see 5SOS live again this year, after a long wait – they’re a great band live, give loads of time to each album, going into the different genres they’ve dabbled in. To say 5SOS are underrated would be wrong, consider they played the Royal Albert Hall this year – but as an alternative band, they’re completely looked over. They’re good musicians, they put a lot of effort in their music and they collaborate with a lot of big names in pop punk.
Rock Spirit Absolute Joy – WACO
I loved this album on reviewing it, it was fun and lovable. The band thanked me for the review, which was super nice. They’ve completely won me over, it’s also not too long. Well produced. It’s fun and heartfelt.
Faith in the Future – Louis Tomlinson
Louis Tomlinson gets overlooked a lot, especially compared to the other lads from One Direction. Maybe I have a bias towards him, growing up near Doncaster myself but he’s a good singer, and a great songwriter. He’s been through a lot, but he puts his heart into every song, and puts a lot of time into writing and editing. His music isn’t big and flashy, but it’s true and I admire him for it.