Flicker
by Niall Horan
  • Record Label: Capitol
  • Release Date: Oct 20, 2017
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 422 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 341 out of 422
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 422
  3. Negative: 58 out of 422
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  1. Missycat781
    Oct 22, 2017
    10
    So far this album has 2 certified platinum singles for This Town and Slow Hands from several countries and more to come I am sure. Slow Hands hit #1 at US Top Radio 40, Adult Radio and Dance Club Song. Niall wrote every song and actually recorded with a live band.
  2. Lizaerbert
    Oct 22, 2017
    10
    I'm not music critic, I'm simple person. If I like music I give it 10, if I don't I give it 0. This album is definitely 10. It's beautiful and soulful. I highly recommend you to listen deluxe edition
  3. amberisabelle
    Oct 22, 2017
    10
    Niall Horan has matured and spread his wings, and it's obvious when listening to Flicker. The songs transition into each other seamlessly and each track brings something new and refreshing to the table. The lyrics are astounding and touching, relatable to anyone and cleverly crafted. His vocals suit the songs impeccably and the duet with Maren Morris is proof that Horan is versatile andNiall Horan has matured and spread his wings, and it's obvious when listening to Flicker. The songs transition into each other seamlessly and each track brings something new and refreshing to the table. The lyrics are astounding and touching, relatable to anyone and cleverly crafted. His vocals suit the songs impeccably and the duet with Maren Morris is proof that Horan is versatile and powerful in his vocal ability. Flicker is a testament of Horan's hard work and deserves all the praise.… Expand
  4. momof2k9s
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I was late to the game of the 1D days, so I really didn't know much about any of the boys (now men) and their musical taste, and can honestly say I'm very pleasantly surprised with Niall. Having grown up listening to Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, etc you can definitely hear their influences in his songs. The album has a good mix of tunes and overall can easily appeal to all ages of fans.I was late to the game of the 1D days, so I really didn't know much about any of the boys (now men) and their musical taste, and can honestly say I'm very pleasantly surprised with Niall. Having grown up listening to Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, etc you can definitely hear their influences in his songs. The album has a good mix of tunes and overall can easily appeal to all ages of fans. Glad I made the purchase.… Expand
  5. brittney
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Despite spending the last couple of years within a pop boyband, Niall Horan has successfully distanced himself from One Direction without dramatically or desperately attempting to snub his former group or their music. Flicker is refreshing to listen to, each track better than the last. Coming from someone who generally doesn't enjoy country music, I found myself repeatedly going back toDespite spending the last couple of years within a pop boyband, Niall Horan has successfully distanced himself from One Direction without dramatically or desperately attempting to snub his former group or their music. Flicker is refreshing to listen to, each track better than the last. Coming from someone who generally doesn't enjoy country music, I found myself repeatedly going back to Seeing Blind ft. Maren Morris. Another good thing about this album is it's versatility. It's a track on Flicker for everyone. There hasn't been an album this year that I have managed to listen to in its entirety, until Flicker. It starts off with On The Loose, which is was the perfect opener for Niall Horan's debut album. You also have deeply personal songs such as Flicker and Paper Houses, that manage to pull on the heart strings. Slow Hands, a classic that dominated the airwaves this summer with its sultry, rock vibe. Another personal favorite is On My Own, albeit that some lyrics are a bit comical at times but it demonstrates his Irish-roots with the folksy tone it provides. I feel that this album is genuine to who Niall Horan has always wanted to be as an artist, which is refreshing. It doesn't feel like he is forcing the audience that he always wanted to be something else while in One Direction. Flicker shows his potential as a stand-alone artist and I'm looking forward to see what he has in store down the road.… Expand
  6. AnelisseWalker
    Oct 21, 2017
    9
    This album is fantastic. The songs are so relatable and the mix between Niall's voice and the instruments are so good. I'm sure Niall is going to be bigger and bigger as a solo artist. Well done!
  7. NeutralMilkH
    Oct 21, 2017
    7
    Track-by-Track Review
    On the Loose: A mostly inoffensive song with some surprisingly decent instrumental moments in it, not too shabby. (7/10)
    This Town: A gentle and thoughtful song (compared to most pop musicians at least.) There are nice vocal dynamics in the song (especially during the chorus) and it's something that I might "come back" to listening to. The cheesiness is present, but    Track-by-Track Review
    On the Loose: A mostly inoffensive song with some surprisingly decent instrumental moments in it, not too shabby. (7/10)
    This Town: A gentle and thoughtful song (compared to most pop musicians at least.) There are nice vocal dynamics in the song (especially during the chorus) and it's something that I might "come back" to listening to. The cheesiness is present, but it's sincere for the most part. (9/10)
    Seeing Blind: Production is a tad bit too clean on this one, the vocals are good for the most part but the song is lacking something lyrically for me to latch on to and there isn't much chemistry in my opinion. (6/10)
    Slow Hands: The cut-up nature of the vocals and instrumentals benefit the song and make it sound somewhat unique when compared to the more cleaner and sleeker versions of "this song" considering the fact that it has essentially been done a thousand times. (8/10)
    Too Much to Ask: Doesn't really flow as a follow-up to Slow Hands, it is still a solid track nonetheless for the most part. I do slightly despise the piano at the beginning considering the extremely generic nature of the song and "tell me everything that you regret" has a weird jump. Drumming's pretty good though. (7/10)
    *At this point I realized that I was being rather soft, so I'm going to be more random with my scoring based on my first impressions of the songs*
    Paper Houses: The vocals are often repetitive but there is a background instrumental that is pretty sweet, can't quite figure out what it is though... some organ sort of instrument. The chorus is fine for the most part but this song is forgettable for the most part. (5/10)
    Since We're Alone: I actually really liked the intro of this one. Although it certainly sounds like a country song, the cheesy country vocals are instead being sung by Niall Horan. Some pretty cool background vocal effects too. (8/10)
    Flicker: Well, the verses are boring and weirdly delivered, but the chorus does bring a good amount of passion to the song. The song never builds which would be fine if it didn't essentially stay the same the whole time. (6/10)
    Fire Away: The vocals are more smoothly delivered than the prior tracks, with a pattern that I can actually appreciate, however, the drumming and beat of these songs is starting to sound repetitive because nearly all of these songs are around the same pace and tempo. As a song though, this is pretty good, it simply suffers based on circumstance. (7/10)
    You and Me: As the conclusion to this album, this song was extremely underwhelming and is probably the most forgettable of the bunch with a boring country guitar-esque lick. The instrumentation is much more interesting on the chorus but... zzz... (4/10)

    Final Score: 67/100 or 7/10 for Metacritic purposes

    Consensus: This album can be either good or bad based on what kind of mood you're in. If you want to listen to an album with some surprising instrumentation, some flexible vocals, and with a backbone of country/pop drumming, then this should do the trick. However, if you're not in the mood to listen to an album with every song being a love song without truly insightful lyrics or particularly amazing or powerful vocals (he keeps it pretty mellow, there's really nothing to be impressed by when compared to others in this genre) then this album will probably rub you the wrong way. That's my review, so I hope that you find it to be somewhat helpful. :)    … Expand
  8. AlexKelsey
    Oct 21, 2017
    0
    It's like I'm listening to 1D's music with Niall's voice only, Boring and Bland. If Fangirls want to obsess over a country-poppy artist go listen to Shawn Mendes.
  9. njhcourt
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I've been waiting for this album to come out for a long time and it did not disappoint. The lyrics are beautiful and meaningful and will speak to a large crowd of people. You can tell that Niall really thought about everything and left no detail missed when making his visions come to life. Although I was impatient at times waiting for the album to come out, I'm so glad he took his timeI've been waiting for this album to come out for a long time and it did not disappoint. The lyrics are beautiful and meaningful and will speak to a large crowd of people. You can tell that Niall really thought about everything and left no detail missed when making his visions come to life. Although I was impatient at times waiting for the album to come out, I'm so glad he took his time with it and didn't release it until he was 100% satisfied with the finished product. If you only listen to one song to decide whether or not you want to hear more, listen to on the loose or since we're alone. Both are great songs that are a bit more upbeat than other songs and they are some of my favorite songs on the album. Niall never received the credit and spotlight that he deserved in One Direction and was constantly in the shadows but now he has stepped out into the light and is getting all of the recognition and praise that he should've been getting for the past 7 years.… Expand
  10. weklyentert
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    A chill calming album with amazing lyrics and consistency beautiful melodies that happens to be the highlight of it. Niall comes across relationships in the most formal way that it will make you wanna be in love too.
  11. plsmith
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    What a debut. I heard this album live at his Sydney Flicker show before he released it and I couldn’t get the songs out of my head. This album simultaneously took me on an emotional journey whilst giving me summer road trip vibes. It’s so lovely to FINALLY be able to hear Niall rather than just wait for his two line solos in every One Direction song. So proud of him and I can’t wait toWhat a debut. I heard this album live at his Sydney Flicker show before he released it and I couldn’t get the songs out of my head. This album simultaneously took me on an emotional journey whilst giving me summer road trip vibes. It’s so lovely to FINALLY be able to hear Niall rather than just wait for his two line solos in every One Direction song. So proud of him and I can’t wait to enjoy what is surely going to be a career full of longevity, success and recognition that he truly deserves.… Expand
  12. MariaJose94
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    NIall Horan's debut album is by far one of the best this year in its genre, the influences of folk, americana and classic rock make it a delight for the ear, the way every song is written and produced makes you feel every situation he sings about as yours.
  13. Lauren28
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Not a 1D fan but I have to say that I'm really impressed by his written skills I've been listening flicker and is better than I expected and I already had high expectations
  14. Seeingblindfire
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Flicker is the best album i have heard in a while. Literally every song is better than the last. Flicker the the title track is the most emotional song i have ever heard. Seeing blind although i dont like country music Niall and Maren voice goes together so well. You and Me is definitely amazing. On the loose has the greatest beat. My personal favorite is on my own because its so Niall andFlicker is the best album i have heard in a while. Literally every song is better than the last. Flicker the the title track is the most emotional song i have ever heard. Seeing blind although i dont like country music Niall and Maren voice goes together so well. You and Me is definitely amazing. On the loose has the greatest beat. My personal favorite is on my own because its so Niall and of i could never get tired of Slow Hands, This Town and Too much to ask. Basically this album was so beautiful and raw and completely different than whats in the charts and its going to be the only thing i will listen to for the rest of my life.… Expand
  15. MelissaNL
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I see nothing wrong with the fact that his sound is influenced by the music he grown up with, you can notice the evolution he has had from the previous albums to Flicker and I'm not ashamed to say that I enjoy his music!
  16. BeccaPatt
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I found a video of Niall singing an acoustic version of "Flicker" (the title track) and it was everything I love, so when I saw that there was an album, I decided to check it out. I was listening to the third song when I purchased the whole album. It's a pure joy. The first track "On The Loose" has the soul of Fleetwood Mac's "Rumors". It's an homage with an updated vibe that suits hisI found a video of Niall singing an acoustic version of "Flicker" (the title track) and it was everything I love, so when I saw that there was an album, I decided to check it out. I was listening to the third song when I purchased the whole album. It's a pure joy. The first track "On The Loose" has the soul of Fleetwood Mac's "Rumors". It's an homage with an updated vibe that suits his vocals perfectly. Track two is "This Town". A simple and well crafted acoustic ballad about that one love that you never forget. The lyrics are straightforward and there's an honesty in the way that Horan delivers them that makes this song more than the sum of it's parts. The third track is a duet with Grammy winner Maren Morris called "Seeing Blind". It's fun and catchy with a country flare. It's SO catchy that by the end I was singing along with a smile on my face. I could definitely see some crossover potential here. Track four "Slow Hands" is a funky 80's throwback type of song with hints of country and I can't wait to groove along to it in my car. Track five's "Too Much To Ask" is about the feeling of not quite being able to move on after a big break-up that we all can relate to. Horan's vocals shine on this one and he emotes those feelings of longing and loss perfectly. Track six is "Paper Houses". It's all about working so hard on a relationship just to have it fall apart anyway. His vocals soar on the chorus and you really get a feel for what a great songwriter he is. The imagery is spot-on. Track seven's "Since We're Alone" is all about being able to pour your heart out for that one person you can trust with all your insecurities. The star of this one, for me, was Horan's beautiful falsetto. Track eight is the title track "Flicker". The songwriting and delivery is perfection. It's delicate and understated. Stunning. Track nine is "Fire Away" and it's one of the best on the album. The last track on the standard edition is "You And Me". It stays in that folky/country vein and hooked me with the first line. A great end. A quick note about the bonus tracks. 11 "On My Own" is a fun pub song sang with a large dose of Irish flare. 12. "Mirrors" I am at a loss about the decision to make this a "bonus" track and not to feature it on the actual album. It's a strong single contender and, once again, the writing and vocals shine. 13. "The Tide". The song that should have been the album closer. Overall, I found this to be an excellent first album. It's honest and doesn't try to be anything it's not. Horan's vocals and writing style are sincere and have a charm about them that's endearing and hard to resist. If this is the start, I can't wait to see what the future has in store from him.… Expand
  17. stephaniebrown
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    amazing album, super chill and calming, but still with some bangers, perfect to listen during autumn season or when you need a break, incredible work :)
  18. Sanjukta
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Flicker is so much raw and beautifully written. Niall sounds great in every song of this great album. He sings the songs with so much feel that you also feel the emotions of the songs. The songs grow into you as you keep listening to them. He brings out the best in himself and you can feel how hard he had worked on this album when you listen to all the songs. His album is much differentFlicker is so much raw and beautifully written. Niall sounds great in every song of this great album. He sings the songs with so much feel that you also feel the emotions of the songs. The songs grow into you as you keep listening to them. He brings out the best in himself and you can feel how hard he had worked on this album when you listen to all the songs. His album is much different from all the other pop stars out there today yet he proves that he is better than any other artist out there.
    It is a gem of a album and everybody should support his songs. If someone dislikes this album then they don't know what true music is :) :)    … Expand
  19. CFoley
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I didn't think I would like the album as much as I did tbh. It's very personal and very Niall. I can't wait to see what comes next when he steps more out of his comfort zone. This was a good start for him as far as first albums go.
  20. merrychristmas
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Might be one of my favorite solo!1D albums. Proud of how far he's come and looking forward to what he has in store for us.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  21. HammersmithGuy
    Oct 21, 2017
    9
    After a summer of hearing 'Slow Hands' continuously on the radio and never tiring of it and then the Graham Norton performance of 'Too Much Too Ask' I decided to buy the deluxe version of 'Flicker' to get the full 13 tracks. I'm so glad I did. It's a smashing debut for Niall Horan. Warm, intimate, engaging and well executed. The lyrics speak with an honesty that most can relate to and youAfter a summer of hearing 'Slow Hands' continuously on the radio and never tiring of it and then the Graham Norton performance of 'Too Much Too Ask' I decided to buy the deluxe version of 'Flicker' to get the full 13 tracks. I'm so glad I did. It's a smashing debut for Niall Horan. Warm, intimate, engaging and well executed. The lyrics speak with an honesty that most can relate to and you get the feeling this down to earth, unaffected piece of work is really part of who Niall is. Not trying to be anything he isn't, staying the right side of a respectful nod to his musical influences, just enjoying putting his music out there. He deserves every success with this record. I'm sure he'll get it.… Expand
  22. Jenine
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I'm here for this album. I'm glad this album turned out to be exactly how I imagined. A lot of good music to come from Niall Horan in the future, I'm sure.
  23. ria1993
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Beautiful album. I couldn't wait to listen to his own album and wow I loved it. it's been so long since I listened to an album and liked every single track on it. so very well done, Niall
  24. lyd22
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Really great album, I've had it on repeat since it came out, It's a really nice fall album. The lyrics are so emotional, and amazing. Strongly suggest listening to the deluxe version of the album because the extra 3 tracks are really great
  25. thishouseisnota
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Personally I enjoyed this album right off the bat. This type of music is right up my alley so I'm not surprised by how much I ended up liking it, but I think this may be a slow burner for some.
  26. okyall
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    This is a great debut album. The vulnerability of the song lyrics, to his unique vocal talents. He has a great range of songs from Flicker to Slow Hands. My favorites are Fire Away, On My Own, and The Tide.
  27. nimblefun
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I gave this album another listen this morning and liked it just as much, if not a little more than the first time I heard it yesterday. On The Loose in particular is a jam, definitely one of the best on the album.
  28. Niallsbabe13
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I came to love 1D about a year ago only but I am in so deep that it's hard to climb out of this wonderful place I've been hurled in to. Niall Horan's music is top of line at it's best. This album will go places as will he. The songs are so emotional, raw and delicate. Flicker has got to be my fav but they're all just so good.
  29. Nicole88
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I had some time and listened to this album under the covers with my eyes closed. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I found Niall's voice to be quite soothing and just about everyone can relate to a lot of the lyrics
  30. carley
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    I was pleasantly surprised by this hidden gem of an album. Niall was the 1D guy who flew under the radar, but now he soars on his own beautifully crafted melodies and thoughtful, unique lyrics that are rich with imagery and mature beyond his years. A handful of these tunes pay admirable homage to classics of 70s and 80s rock, especially the darker, more mysterious "On the Loose," theI was pleasantly surprised by this hidden gem of an album. Niall was the 1D guy who flew under the radar, but now he soars on his own beautifully crafted melodies and thoughtful, unique lyrics that are rich with imagery and mature beyond his years. A handful of these tunes pay admirable homage to classics of 70s and 80s rock, especially the darker, more mysterious "On the Loose," the infectious and Fleetwood Mac-esque "Since We're Alone," and the absolutely showstopping "Mirrors." These rockier tunes are complimented by a selection of easy-listening, soothing yet full and charismatic melodies. Highlights are the heartbreakingly relatable "Too Much to Ask," the sweet "Fire Away" which gives off an undeniable Cat Stevens vibe, and of course the title track "Flicker," a strings-laden story of holding onto a love that's slowly burning out right before your eyes.

    For reasons unknown, there's a regular version of the album that omits three of the absolute best songs, which are only featured on the Deluxe version. To enjoy this album to its fullest, consider "Flicker (Deluxe)" the only option for you. In addition to the aforementioned "Mirrors," the celebratory Irish-drinking tune "On My Own" is this album's 11 o'clock number and showcases Niall's truly fantastic vocal ability, and "The Tide" is another folk-rocky track that you'll want to blast over and over again, belting out every word.

    Not a One Direction fan? Well, here's a news flash: Niall Horan ain't One Direction. He's an artist all his own with a one-of-a-kind voice and stories to tell through his music that are undoubtedly going to span generations of dedicated listeners. 10/10 for "Flicker (Deluxe)." Go get it, slide into the CD player in your car, roll down the windows, crank the volume, and rock out to a heck of a debut.    … Expand
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Critic Reviews

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Metascore
64

Generally favorable reviews - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. The Guardian
    Oct 20, 2017
    40
    Its lack of artistic ambition or character of its own is easy to mock, but Horan may well have the last laugh.
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  2. The Independent (UK)
    Oct 20, 2017
    60
    Lyrically, Horan pushes no envelopes, sticking to earnest love plaints and poignant reminiscences for the most part, and even offering to listen to his girl’s problems in “Fire Away”.
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  3. The Telegraph (UK)
    Oct 20, 2017
    60
    It is hard to get overheated about something so determinedly tepid. And yet, dropped amid the frenzy of pop radio, Horan’s songs are immediately distinctive.
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