Louis Tomlinson returns with a sense of optimism on ‘How Did I Get Here?’

Four years after the release of his second studio album, Louis Tomlinson returns with How Did I Get Here? The new album demonstrates confidence and optimism from the One Direction graduate. The psychedelic pop rock album emphasizes its instrumentation, but falters due to its limited versatility and a lackluster second half.

The opening song “Lemonade” sets the scene for how Tomlinson envisioned the theme of the album. The song is made up of a peppy tempo, guitar riffs and synth-led melodies that help to take control. These aspects combined with the chanting choruses of the song, help listeners envision the sun-soaked world of the album. Tomlinson continues this vision with “On Fire” and “Sunflowers.” However, production takes more of a front seat on the latter with synth-inducing melodies. 

“Lazy” is when the album begins to fall flat, with the lyrics leaving much to be desired. This is also the point in the album where each song begins to feel repetitive to listeners.

“Palaces” and “Last Night,” break the monotony of the album and represent exactly where Tomlinson can thrive. “Palaces” hits the chords of a 2000s rock song that airs at the summer party scene of a movie; complete with a beautiful bridge and a head-banging performance from the drummer. The lyrics feature peak thematics from Tomlinson, as he fully immerses his listeners into the world of the song.

“Last Night” brings a different sound to the album. It features bell chimes and a soft guitar riff that blends with a breakcore-esque drum pattern. The result is a beautiful setup for Tomlinson, who builds anticipation as the song closes with an attractive synth pattern. 

“Broken Bones” is another highlight, sparkling due to the melancholic vocals. The voices work to match a somewhat dystopian guitar melody that is representative of what Tomlinson has done on his previous works. 

“Dark to Light” is where the creativity on the project takes a halt. The track feels basic when the diverse synth patterns and guitar riffs are replaced with bland lyricism. The lack of personality carries into “Sanity” and “Jump The Gun.” The latter would serve well in a Ford commercial, though it doesn’t necessarily fit the theme of the album. 

How Did I Get Here? as a whole is a mixed bag. The album features ear candy psychedelic pop rock at its highest, and commercial pop with no replay value at its lowest. Despite its weaker moments, the album serves as a step forward for Tomlinson, who is beginning to emerge into solo, sonic confidence.