Harry Styles, Aperture | Song Review

Pop superstar Harry Styles returns with the surprising but engaging “Aperture,” the promo single from his fourth LP, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.

Grammy-winning pop singer-songwriter Harry Styles warms up the coldness of January 2026 with his single, “Aperture”. “Aperture” is the five-minute-plus opener from his highly anticipated fourth studio album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. (arrives March 6, 2026). Styles composed “Aperture” with producer Kid Harpoon. Early on, it’s crystal clear that Styles is unveiling a change of pace – a new era and sound.

“Aperture” is surprising from the get-go.  It features warm, electronic sounds and driving rhythmic synths.  Eventually, an infectious, rhythmic electronic kick/bass provides a mighty anchor.  Styles is in no rush to sing, first entering the mix 45 seconds in.  His vocals are cool, calm, and collected.  His tone is beautiful against the minimalist but rhythmic backdrop. “Take no prisoners for me,” he sings at the beginning of the verse, and concludes, “I’m sold, I’m going on clean…” Interesting.  The second verse follows, with a more developed musical accompaniment – more ornate drum programming. Also, the secret weapon of harmonized vocals enters the mix (“I’ve no more tricks up my sleeve / Game called review the player”).  “Aperture” picks up steam with the arrival of the pre-chorus, which features more overt vocals by Styles and first mentions aperture itself.  “It’s best you know what you don’t,” he sings, and adds, “Aperture lets the light in.” He’s 100% correct. By the chorus, the fever pitch has finally been reached.  It features a tuneful melody and infectious lyrics.

“We belong together

It finally appears it’s only love

We belong together.”

The third verse is composed much like the first two, with the backdrop on autopilot.  A pre-chorus, half the length of the first, follows, while the chorus shines once more, in all of its together-belonging glory. The bridge distinguishes itself from the other sections.  The danceable, modern pop vibes continue to thrive here as Styles sings, “I won’t stray from it / I don’t know these spaces / Time won’t wait on me / I wanna know what safe is.” “Aperture” takes a couple of listens to digest – to figure out what direction Styles is going for. Initially, I was skeptical, but admittedly, this about-face from Harry has grown on me quickly.  It’s worth checking out!

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Harry Styles » Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. » Erskine Records Limited / Columbia » 3.6.26 [📷: Erskine Records Limited / Columbia]

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