As a “Once in a Lifetime” 1D fan, I wish to pay my respects to the late Liam Payne by reviewing One Direction’s fourth studio album FOUR. Released in November of 2014, its soon-to-be 10-year anniversary revived my appreciation of the boy band’s nostalgic sound. FOUR is characterized by its pop-rock influences, dulcet vocals and love-obsessed lyrics. It’s a timeless album that speaks to complicated relationships and heartbreak.
I remember listening to FOUR and falling for its poetic verses and easy-to-listen style. Despite being in 7th grade, I sympathized with the members’ desire for companionship and willingness to ‘give everything’ for true love. The album made me eagerly anticipate the future and romanticize building profound relationships on my own. FOUR introduced me to the world of “18” by focusing on mature subjects like vulnerability, intimacy, self-reflection and the concept of ‘letting go’.
This release is musically captivating due to its jam-packed tracks. Every song holds heartfelt lyrics, rich guitar sections and incredible vocal performances (particularly in the vocal layering and background vocals). FOUR’s B-sides are filled with dynamic choruses that make you feel like the sixth member of One Direction as you sing along and embrace the mood of each track. Among them, “Fireproof,” “Fool’s Gold,” “Stockholm Syndrome” and “Once in a Lifetime” are FOUR songs that stand out for their flirtatious imagery, memorable refrains and melodic instrumentation.
FOUR promotional photo. Pictured from left to right: Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan. Retrieved from The Washington Post / Twitter.
The feeling of discovering love for the first time is articulated in the song’s opening line: “I think I'm gonna lose my mind / Somethin' deep inside me, I can't give up.” This powerful verse showcases the delights and hardships of falling for someone. Despite these lyrics, the song maintains a relaxed vibe through the member’s voices echoing in reverb style. “Fireproof”’s highlight, however, is its bass and electric guitar sections, creating a groovy and stripped back sound.
This track is perfect for a late-night remission of past crushes or fictional film characters. Its tone brings a sense of familiarity and ease, along with an emotional connection to the song’s full-hearted themes. Liam’s part in the first chorus: “Cause nobody saves me, baby, the way you do” is a moving reminder of the warmth of being with a loved one. His melodic delivery adds to this soothing feeling and pairs effortlessly with the layered background vocals.
“Fool’s Gold” is a touching and painful song about one-sided relationships and the phenomena of ‘blinded love.’ Its lyrics: “And yeah, I've let you use me from that day that we first met / But I'm not done yet / Falling for you” capture the lonesome feeling of caring for another person despite their indifference. The track’s instrumentals mix acoustic, electric and string chords alongside a vivid drum pattern. “Fool’s Gold” builds on these sounds as the song progresses, producing a melancholic yet appealing ambiance.
Liam’s line: “I'm the first to admit that I'm reckless / I get lost in your beauty and I can't see / Two feet in front of me” is sincere and relatable. This sentimental verse depicts love as painful, confusing and multifaceted. The overall message, however, is to follow one’s heart even at the expense of foolishness and rejection. This track is a must-add to any heartbreak playlist or queue
after getting dumped.
Perhaps my favorite One Direction song, “Stockholm Syndrome” is a masterpiece of a B-side. Its electronic-rock style, beat drops and vocal arrangements are simply alluring. Take, for example, the intro’s lyrical structure:
“Who's that shadow holding me hostage? I've been here for days /… I know they'll be coming to find me soon / But I fear I'm getting used to / Being held by you.”
These peculiar yet love-bounded lyrics represent “Stockholm Syndrome” or the condition of becoming emotionally attached to someone who’s physically ‘captured’ you. The song features dynamic instrumentation combining guitar riffs, synthesized piano sounds and tambourine-like snares. The highlight of the track is the bridge—a high-energy section with dramatic effects accompanied by Liam’s passionate falsetto voice. If ever in need of a pick-me-up, this track delivers.
A sentimental and dreamy tenderness infused with acoustic layers and ethereal vocals, “Once in a Lifetime” is a classic love song that explores the beauty of finding love that is “just right.” The track emphasizes the group's vocal range, showcasing the member’s tenor and baritone registers. I enjoy this song’s harmonic techniques, extended background notes and its angelic feeling.
Yet, the best part of “Once in a Lifetime” is its intro and outro parts. Liam introduces the song by singing: “Once in a lifetime it's just right / We make no mistakes / Not even a landslide or riptide / Could take it all away.” His final line: “Once in a lifetime you were mine” soundly completes the track, leaving listeners with nostalgia and a main character moment. This record is utterly blissful and a perfect addition to an autumn or midnight-play mix.
Liam Payne at NBC's Today Show in 2014, for the release of FOUR. Retrieved from Getty Images.
Whether fans or casual listeners, we can cherish and honor an artist for their dedication, talent and contribution to music. One Direction will always hold a special place in my heart as they were the first group I became a fan of. I remember listening to their debut album Up All Night and instantly being hooked to their catchy, upbeat and endearing boy-next-door sound.
FOUR, while similarly brilliant, paints the band as sophisticated and well-rounded musicians. Liam in particular contributed to the album by co-writing 10 songs, including “Fireproof” and “Fool’s Gold.”
Although his passing is devastating, I hope listeners around the world remember Liam Payne as a virtuous artist with a contagious smile and an immense admiration for music.
FOUR is one of One Direction’s greatest albums and one that fills me with numerous emotions. It is a release that I will continue to replay for many years to come. Make sure to listen to FOUR on its 10 year anniversary on November 17th for a nostalgic and heart-touching thrill.
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