一世を風靡したワン・ダイレクションのメンバーとして、7,000万枚を超えるセールスを上げ、数々のワールドツアーを制覇してきたナイル・ホーラン。2016年秋にソロ活動をスタートさせ、2017年10月に発表した1stアルバム『フリッカー』は、全米アルバム・チャート初登場1位を獲得、61の国と地域のiTunes アルバム・チャートでも1位に輝き、アメリカを含めた18か国でプラチナ認定され、約300万枚を売り上げた。同年、ソロ・アーティストとしての初の来日公演はチケット即日完売。そんな日本でも圧倒的な人気を誇るナイルの約2年半ぶりとなるセカンド・アルバム。

限定デラックス盤

発売・販売元 提供資料 （2020/02/14）

With his sophomore effort Heartbreak Weather, Irish singer/songwriter Niall Horan delves into the highs and lows of the titular heartache that comes in the wake of a breakup. Unlike his debut, which was rooted in folk-influenced rock sounds, this set frees Horan with polished production and mainstream-friendly shine, a breezy guitar-based pop sound similar to contemporary work by Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes, and his former One Direction bandmate Harry Styles. Heartbreak Weather is a big leap forward for Horan, confident (Nice to Meet Ya), mature (Bend the Rules), and even a little seductive (Small Talk). Despite the often dour and forlorn lyrical content, the songs are full-blooded and more energetic than the average breakup album. On the driving Black and White, Horan declares, I promise that Ill love you for the rest of my life, as the drum beats pulse and guitars soar. Later, on Cross Your Mind, Horan allows himself to be played, resigned to admit, Leaving me in pieces, but I swear its worth it every time/Love the way you hurt me, and it doesnt even cross your mind atop a slick bass groove and disco handclaps. During one particular moment of confusion and yearning, he tries to fill the hole in his heart on the sweeping Arms of a Stranger, the most beautiful track on the album. Its jarring to enjoy these thoroughly pleasant-sounding songs while Horan is in so much pain, but the juxtaposition makes for a deeper listening experience. As his ex-1D crew continue their own solo careers, Horan maintains his position near the top of the pack with yet another relatable collection of emotive vignettes about everyday love. ~ Neil Z. Yeung

Rovi