It all started with a cryptic video posted on the Harry Styles YouTube account, adorned with the phrase “We belong together.” The internet began to speculate about what the video might mean. Then, posters with the same words started to pop up around major cities like Berlin and New York, hinting at something big coming for Harry Styles. Styles’ team began to send out texts from HSHQ (Harry Styles Headquarters) with messages that raised more questions than it answered, and a voice memo of Harry singing “We belong together.” Soon enough, on January 15th, they released the album cover and the title, “Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally." Fans went wild; after four years, Harry Styles would finally be back. And he would be back better than ever.
“Aperture,” the first released single of the new 12-track album, was released on January 23rd, along with a music video featuring more choreography than even Directioners have seen Harry perform. It was a dance-pop, electronic song that immediately made everyone who listened to it get up and dance. “Aperture” actually had a much deeper meaning than its ultra-pop sound led on. The lyrics were a tribute to opening oneself up for new experiences, embracing vulnerability, and accepting both the light and darkness of life. Harry knew that he had to be more vulnerable and introspective with this album, so he did just that.
Soon enough, on March 6th 2026, Harry released his long awaited fourth studio album. The album, ranging from tracks like “American Girls” to “Taste Back,” did not fit into one set genre. It was a tapestry of songs, from electronic music to acoustic melancholic ballads. Harry using multiple genres for the album represents how he himself cannot be put into one genre. Harry was never one for convention. He dressed in a flowy blue dress for Vogue Magazine in 2020 and the internet went crazy. He was actively redefining masculinity in mainstream pop. The world knows that Harry loves to make a statement and stand out from the crowd, and the album showcases Harry’s range in music and self.
Harry presented vulnerability and introspection through many songs on the album. “Paint by Numbers,” “Coming Up Roses,” and the “Waiting Game” were the most thoughtful songs on the album. Imagine “Matilda” by Harry Styles with a slightly more techno beat. As someone who loves sadder, mellow music with deep lyrics, these songs struck a chord. They were full of emotion, especially “Paint by Numbers” and the “Waiting Game.” The two tracks were about the burdens of fame, breaking toxic relationship cycles, and the pressure to conform.
“Coming up Roses” feels like driving through nighttime streets with a partner who’s leading their own path and simultaneously trying to understand the person next to them. And the ending feels like “Pluto Projector” by Rex Orange County, bringing an out-of-body feel to the heart of the song. “Paint by Numbers” definitely stood out the most since it leaned heavily into acoustic, more calm vocals and heartfelt lyrics. “Carla’s Song” was also a great example of introspective work from Styles. While listening to the song, it can be felt through the entire body. It’s thoughtful and memorable, with the chorus repeating “It’s all waiting there for you.” It’s the most coming-of-age song on the album. The darker tracks were the most relatable off of the album and the most memorable. These songs didn’t quite stray entirely from Harry’s synthy style of tune, but they were the most acoustic tracks.
Even though most of the album was full of electronic, dance-pop, synth music, it felt like Harry wasn’t really at the point of the genre. It was like he was scared to go full synth. He was being passive with the sound, which made most of the more techno songs sound similar. Harry stated that he was inspired to do a more electronic sound for his new album because of seeing LCD Soundsystem in concert. He spent nights out in Berlin clubs, listened to LCD and Jamie XX live, yet he still decided to blend genres. It felt like he was giving a toned-down, diet version of a sound that he loves.
Harry and his producers didn't want to stray too far from his original formula, but maybe it would’ve done him some good. He could’ve surprised people by giving his fans a chance to see electro-Styles. He was probably afraid of what the fans would think if the album was too techno, but as a Harry Styles fan, it would’ve been awesome to see a different side of him. Perhaps it would do Harry some good to change producers, since he’s been with them for 10 years, since the start of his solo career, and there’s not much new he can do with them now. However, songs like Dance No More, Season 2 Weight Loss, and Are You Listening Yet? hit synth-pop, dance music the most. Harry blending genres of synth and his usual pop genre made for a very Harry Styles way to approach electronic music.
Kiss All the Time, Disco Occasionally. was a testament to how vulnerable and diverse Harry Styles could be through a pop-synth album. It showed the world a different side of Harry, but hopefully next album he’ll feel more comfortable leaning into an even more electronic world, really taking inspiration from his favorite artists. It would be great to see Harry show his true self through his music. Harry Styles’ album feels so personal yet it's full of tracks to dance to. It’s the perfect cinematic soundtrack for a coming-of-age movie. But, one final question remains in the end. Should we kiss all the time and disco occasionally?
