ZAYN returns with his third single of 2017, “Dust Till Dawn,” featuring Sia.  “Dusk” has its moments, but it’s not without flaws. 

ZAYN is back…again in 2017.  Earlier, he released singles “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever (Fifty Shades Darker)” with Taylor Swift, and “Still Got Time,” featuring PARTYNEXTDOOR.  “Still Got Time” was an enjoyable record, but didn’t reinvent the wheel. Neither does his latest single, “Dusk Till Dawn,” featuring Sia.

“Dusk Till Dawn,” produced by Greg Kurstin, opens mysteriously; nebulously. ZAYN exhibits an excellent vocal tone on the first verse, showcasing his low register with a smoky sound. Naturally, “Dusk Till Dawn” has a sensual quality, but it’s much more tasteful than “Pillowtalk.”

The form of “Dusk” is interesting. There’s an interlude prior to the pre-chorus, which brings Sia into the fold:

“‘Cause I wanna touch your body / And I wanna feel you too / I wanna see the sunrise / On your sins just me and you.”

On the following pre-chorus, the vocal blend between ZAYN and Sia is interesting. ZAYN is more reserved, while Sia cuts more.  For whatever reason, it doesn’t sound like a perfect match.  Nonetheless, they showcase more chemistry on the chorus.  The chorus is punchier, more aggressive, and somewhat uncharacteristic considering what’s precedes it.

“But you’ll never be alone / I’ll be with you from dusk till dawn / I’ll be with you from dust till dawn / Baby, I am right here / I’ll hold you when things go wrong / I’ll be with you from dusk till dawn / I’ll be with you from dusk till dawn / Baby, I am right here.”

ZAYN shows more assertiveness on the second verse, but still maintains poise and showcases his lower register. The second interlude, as well as the pre-chorus don’t quite mesh, as before. It’s surprising and a bit messy.  The bridge is respectable, but not game changing.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Dusk Till Dawn” has its moments, but isn’t without flaws. It’s well-produced and for the most part, the vocals are strong.  There are cons, such as the vocal chemistry isn’t always ‘on.’ The songwriting is oaky, but “nothing to write home about.” This is okay, but doesn’t ‘move the needle.’

ZAYN • Dusk Till Dawn (ft. Sia) – Single • RCA • Release: 9.7.17

Photo Credit: RCA