Review: Zayn Malik's Solo Debut 'Mind of Mine' is Bland, Boring and Basic

Zayn Malik released his debut solo album on March 25, titled “Mind of Mine.” This album was released by RCA Records and was released on the one year anniversary of his split from One Direction.

The album is clearly a declaration of his independence from One Direction. And that deceleration is many things: sexual, sensual, unique and… repetitive.

The album starts out relatively strong with “Pillowtalk,” which was released as a single in late January. This song is extremely catchy and very easy to enjoy.

“It’s You” is a slow, smooth jam that is perfect for anyone who enjoys love songs.

“Befour” is perhaps the best song on the album. Its upbeat rhythm can make anyone want to dance and it has some great lyrical work. The harmonies, beat and great chorus make this song a definite favorite.

After those songs, the album seems to go a bit downhill. Many of the songs share the same slow beat and same lyrical pattern. The album gets a bit boring as Malik is constantly trying to remind us that he is no longer a member of a boy band.

Once again, the album is very sexual, almost overly sexual. Malik’s situation reminds me somewhat of Miley Cyrus completely changing her image to let people know she is no longer the sweet Disney Channel star she once was.

Since leaving One Direction, Malik has shaved his head, pierced his nose, fought with Louis Tomlinson of One Direction, released a racy music video for “Pillowtalk” and gotten a fake head tattoo. He’s going a bit overboard trying to prove he’s grown up since last year, and it extends, in a repetitive fashion, to this record.

The only other good song on the latter part of the album is “Fool for You.” This song is a nice love song that could easily make any lovestricken teenager cry. The lyrics for the chorus read, “Cause I’m a fool for you and the things you do,” which is every teenage girl’s dream to hear.

You’re looking at a pretty average effort here. This had the potential to be a great album had Malik not beat us over the head with the fact he isn’t in a boy band anymore. He could have done much better for a debut album, so hopefully he’s past this phase of transition from One Direction to solo work.

Dakota Palmer is the Online Editor for The Spectator.

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