One Direction has a bubblegum pop reputation with music thanks to their first hits “What Makes You Beautiful” and “‘Kiss You”. Leaving us with the oddball lyrics “making them drool down their chinny chin chins” leaving us in wonder of who could possibly think of those words. But now they are back with a new and different sound that appeals to a larger crowd other than teenage girls.

“Midnight Memories” is their third album, containing 14 songs and running for 48 minutes and it sells for $14.99  , the deluxe edition has 18 songs and runs for 59 minutes. The genre is more grungy than the other two albums they have released, making it rock pop rather than pop. Their debut album “Up All Night” has a heavy pop esque sound making many people think only 12 year old girls would listen to it, making them correct for the most part. But give the band two years to mature their voice and sound then they come out with a smashing record.

The single “Story of my Life” has a fun sound even though it is a fairly slow song. The ear catching chorus can easily make anyone go crazy. Harry Styles singing the first part of the chorus then it transitions into all the members singing which is different from all their songs. The single also contains a large second verse, that member Louis Tomlinson takes a part in. He has a more calming and light voice compared to the other boys, making the hearts of many girls beat a little faster thus making the song go on repeat for days.

The seventh song on the album, “Strong,” is a higher tempo song, yet slower and more calming in the verses. So if you like the fast or slow music this song could be compatible for you. The lyrics contained in the song are the kind of things all girls want to hear from a special someone making it a song that make many girls feel happy and lonely at the same time. “Strong” is one of the more popular songs on the record, reaching number one in New Zealand, despite it being released as a single. The verses are sung in only ways talented and experienced singers could pull off. Member, Zayn Malik sings in the first verse hitting a deep note that some aspiring singers could dream of hitting. The song is beautifully written, by member Louis Tomlinson and Ed Drewett and exquisitely performed by the band.

Lastly, one of the more mature songs on the album is “Little White Lies”. The song has radical dubstep playing in the background of the chorus, which is a first for the band to have in their music. Since the song has a more exciting beat and sound it could easily make anyone want to start dancing whenever it is played. Yet, the song could be considered inappropriate to the bands younger audience. The lyrics say “you say you’re a good girl, but I know you would girl”. These words could concern the parents of young fans because it sends out the wrong message to their children. The sex-filled actions hinted in the song excites the mature side of the audience because these words have never been said in the band’s history. Most of the lyrics that have been given in the previous songs have been “clean” for the most part, giving the song more of an edgy vibe.

In all this album is evoked feelings of excitement and pleasure. It has a Mumford and Sons and The 1975 influence to it making it more enjoyable for most of the audience . The band started producing music in 2012, and from listening to previous albums they have grown a lot quality and musically. I would most definitely recommend a listen to this album if you like faster pace and fun sound.

by LILY JONES