Pop artist Liam Payne makes fans wait even more for his full-length debut album, opting to drop a respectable, if indistinct debut EP first, ‘First Time.’  

The rollout for the debut album by Liam Payne has been incredibly drawn out – understatement.   Even after dropping singles throughout 2017 (“Strip It Down” and “Bedroom Floor” among them), no full-length album materialized.  Now, while he continues to work on his proper debut, Payne drops his debut, four-song EP, First Time.  The results are okay, but, maybe there’s a reason why the album is talking ‘a minute.’

“First Time”

The big attraction from First Time is definitely “First Time,” featuring French Montana.  “First Time” features Latin music cues, though subtler compared to his single with J Balvin, “Familiar.” While the subtlety is appreciated to an extent, there’s still the desire for Liam Payne to showcase more killer instinct – more personality.  Also, French Montana isn’t the most dynamic rapper, so his verse doesn’t necessarily amplify “First Time” to new heights. “Home with You” follows, contrasting the opener with an urban-infused pop sound.   Like “First Time,” it’s not the most rousing song recorded, but respectable. A hit? That’s definitely stretching it. It’s more forgettable than not.

“Depend on It”

“We used to be lovin’, touchin’, kissin’, f- / Like our lives depend on it.” “Depend on It” brings a bit more attitude to First Time.  It was needed.  That said, the ‘attitude’ – aka the profanity – is censored.  No, not every pop song needs to have the f-bomb, but it’s always a bit odd and safe when the censorship arrives as it does here. Nonetheless, it’s great to hear Liam Payne push himself a bit more vocally.  The sole piano ballad on First Time, it’s effective. “Slow” concludes First Time much groovier, and more modern than the songs that precede it – electro-infused pop.  Payne dips into his falsetto, which is always a pro.  Even so, his middle register remains potent, and he delivers the rhythmic melodic lines with swagger.

Final Thoughts 

So, how does the first Liam Payne EP stack up? As aforementioned, it’s okay, but indistinct.  Payne doesn’t distinguish himself from other pop artists, making the four-song effort feel underwhelming.  He sings well, but one of the biggest rubs remains – he’s not a particularly interesting artist, at least right now.  Good looking? Yes. Can sing? Yes.  Truly compelling artist? Nah.

Gems: “Depend on It” 

Liam Payne • First Time (EP) • Capitol • Release: 8.24.18

Photo Credit: Capitol