#06jan18

4) Slow Hands by Niall Horan

It takes a strong artist to authentically capture the sound of a previous era.

It takes an utterly special artist to authentically capture a past sound, while also injecting a modern flair and establishing a unique persona.

“Slow Hands” confirms Niall Horan as one of those utterly special artists.

The song undoubtedly wears its influences on its sleeves. It absolutely calls to mind the music of acts like Don Henley and Fleetwood Mac.

It does not, however, feel like a shameless attempt to replicate the music of those artists. From start-to-finish, it comes across as a fresh, unique (and damn good) pop smash.

More importantly, it provides Niall Horan a platform for establishing an identity — and a superstar one at that.  He comes across as a new, exciting artist inspired by the past — not a generic one opting to live in it.

His vocal delivery is engaging, passionate and preposterously charismatic.  It captures the song’s seductive vibe without abandoning his humble, down-to-earth nature.  He is dialed-in without coming across as calculated.  He is confident without coming across as arrogant.  He is a star without coming across as distant.

Whereas Horan came across as appealing on his debut solo single “This Town,” he comes across as captivating on “This Town.”  His performance is hungrier, more distinct and more self-assured.  He is not simply someone who knows how to sing well.  He is someone who knows how to communicate a message and command attention through song.

While “Niall Horan is a star” may be the major takeaway, it would be a crime to ignore the quality of the record itself.  The addictive groove and alluring chorus are expertly, yet organically crafted, yielding a joyous, memorable sonic experience.

“Slow Hands” is a great song performed by an incredibly promising artist.  It is clearly one of 2017’s best pop hits.