With the announcement of his sophomore album, ‘Icarus Falls,’ ZAYN drops his seventh advance single, “Rainberry,” which has its moments.

After releasing numerous singles, ZAYN finally announced the release of his highly-anticipated sophomore album, Icarus Falls (December 14, 2018).  Icarus Falls’ anticipation has taken a bit of a hit in my eyes, given the mediocrity characterizing many of its advanced singles.  The best of the bunch is “Let Me” (the album opener) in my eyes, while the rest have their own share of flaws (“Sour Diesel”, “Entertainer”, “No Candle No Light”, “Fingers” and “Too Much”).  With the announcement of Icarus Falls, ZAYN also released his seventh single, “Rainberry.”

“Too many bones inside your closet / You thought you buried deep / But they never let me get a minute of peace / How do you sleep? Ooh.” “Rainberry” continues the trend of what I’d dub ‘imperfect’ singles from ZAYN… The best attribute of the record is the masterful falsetto.  Furthermore, he manages to shine when he embraces his full, chest voice.  Also playing in the favor of “Rainberry” is the vibe itself, along with some production cues, namely the groove.

Beyond that, however, “Rainberry” feels like it’s missing that extra, special something to make it ascend ‘next level.’  The production, for its pros, doesn’t feel like it has that ‘finesse’ that it should, sounding a bit more raw than sleek or refined.  This wouldn’t be the first time with new music from the pop star. The song has its lyrical moments, including the chorus, but only time will tell if it’s ‘number one hit’ worthy.

“Rainberry

Falling down your blood-red lips

Why are your eyes heavy?

Is there somebody else you missed?

Tell me what’s going on before I go too far

Said, Rainberry

Is there somebody else, somebody else now?”

Final Thoughts 

Yes, Icarus Falls is still a ‘highly-anticipated’ album from ZAYN, BUT, there are an abundant number of questions marks in my eyes.  “Rainberry” still adds to the questions personally. It has its moments, but in my opinion, still doesn’t give him that next surefire hit on the level of “PILLOWTALK.”

ZAYN » Icarus Falls » RCA » Release: 12.14.18

Photo Credit: RCA