Icarus Falls
by ZAYN
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Dec 14, 2018
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 477 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 399 out of 477
  2. Mixed: 17 out of 477
  3. Negative: 61 out of 477
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  1. verozjm
    Jul 1, 2019
    10
    Amo este álbum de principio a fin. El hecho de que contenga 27 temas puede parecer un desafío al principio, pero vale la pena si eres amante del r&b alternativo. Stand Still y Satisfaction sobresalen, la producción es exquisita.
  2. Ayesha16
    Feb 13, 2019
    10
    Everyone is putting the album of because of its length. Yes it is lengthy, it has 27 tracks but trust me when u listen to it u will fall in love with every single song. There are no skips at all. Zayn has insane vocals and it shows in this album.
  3. Natel28
    Feb 12, 2019
    10
    This album is so incredible I previously had not listened to any of Zayn's solo music. My friend told me to listen to the album and i did. I loved it by the first song. Zayn's voice is so beautiful and he is an extremely skilled song writer. I can tell how passionate he is about his music. The album honestly did not even feel like 27 songs because every song was so well produced and sung iThis album is so incredible I previously had not listened to any of Zayn's solo music. My friend told me to listen to the album and i did. I loved it by the first song. Zayn's voice is so beautiful and he is an extremely skilled song writer. I can tell how passionate he is about his music. The album honestly did not even feel like 27 songs because every song was so well produced and sung i did not want them to end. Zayn's voice and music are so unique and unlike any other music i had ever heard before. The album was so cohesive and the songs told a story. It's one of the best albums i have ever heard in my life and i have listened to it daily since it came out 2 months ago. I can tell just by this album how hard he works in order to put out the best music possible. He is one of the best music artists of this generation. Icarus Falls made me want to learn more about Zayn and listen to his other music and i now am a huge fan. This album definitely has a song for everybody on it there was literally no bad song on it. Everybody needs to listen to this album to see what an amazing and genuine artist Zayn is.… Expand
  4. IcarusFell18
    Feb 12, 2019
    10
    Still prefer Mind Of Mine because of its flow and cohesion but don't let the run time fool you, this is an exceptional album. Zayn explores a lot of different sounds and unique styles, with a few misses but mostly hits. Credit to him for trying new things and staying true to himself and what he likes. Overall, he pulled off the concept of the album very well and displayed his incredibleStill prefer Mind Of Mine because of its flow and cohesion but don't let the run time fool you, this is an exceptional album. Zayn explores a lot of different sounds and unique styles, with a few misses but mostly hits. Credit to him for trying new things and staying true to himself and what he likes. Overall, he pulled off the concept of the album very well and displayed his incredible vocal range. Dive into the lyrics and you'll really start to understand the depth and symbolism of the album. I love how the tone of the album shifts at the interlude and that the "falls" portion takes a darker, more ominous tone, it was done tastefully. I could do without NCNL and wish Dusk Till Dawn would have made the album instead.… Expand
  5. funkclea
    Jan 22, 2019
    8
    A very good album with a lot of songs, so at first you can be worried some of them would look alike but it feels like all of them are bringing a different vibe and emotion.
  6. Vaibav
    Jan 15, 2019
    7
    I decided to listen to the album, and the middle is pretty boring. He scattered good songs at the beginning and the end of the album. Mind Of Mine was good, but this is even better. Good job Zayn. But most of the songs feel like they are computer-generated. I mean they are so much similar and so much effects are applied to his voice.
  7. winonaramos
    Jan 12, 2019
    10
    I had to admit it's kind of doubtful when an album has 27 songs because that's really a lot. But the time I listened to the album, Zayn just proved to himself that he can literally pull off any genre. The songs are all lyrically creative. His voice is so angelic to the point where when you're listening to the album it feels like you're in heaven. Hopefully people wouldn't sleep into thisI had to admit it's kind of doubtful when an album has 27 songs because that's really a lot. But the time I listened to the album, Zayn just proved to himself that he can literally pull off any genre. The songs are all lyrically creative. His voice is so angelic to the point where when you're listening to the album it feels like you're in heaven. Hopefully people wouldn't sleep into this masterpiece. Well done, Zayn!… Expand
  8. NETMUSIC
    Jan 11, 2019
    4
    Firstly, why isn't Dusk Till Dawn, his best song, on this album? Secondly and foremost, who thought 27 tracks was a good idea?

    The good Song(s):
    Fingers
    Too Much
    Let Me
    Rainberry
    Flight of the Stars
    Fingers
    Sour Diesels

    Bad Song(s):
    Everything else.
  9. isrobi
    Jan 4, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Im actually surprised with his talent. After his debut and rather 50/50 album in quality h =e managed to release 27 tracks(!!!) album and no weak songs on it. Incredible lyrics, amazing music and brilliant production makes this album top 3 of 2018. Unfortunately without label support and promo won't charts anywhere but im proud with the fact I can enjoy quality music where 2018 lacked of it. PERFECT… Expand
  10. mariam78
    Dec 31, 2018
    10
    the thing about this album is that every song is unique. Literally every song is different from the other, i liked so much flight to the stars, all that, you wish you knew, sour diesel, rainberry, insomnia, talk to me... ugh ALL? Yes all. NO skips. It deserves all the success in this world. It shows Zayn's voice so well, his vocals and the lyrics are everything. The producing is verythe thing about this album is that every song is unique. Literally every song is different from the other, i liked so much flight to the stars, all that, you wish you knew, sour diesel, rainberry, insomnia, talk to me... ugh ALL? Yes all. NO skips. It deserves all the success in this world. It shows Zayn's voice so well, his vocals and the lyrics are everything. The producing is very outstanding and better than Mind of mine's one. I truly enjoyed this album. From the first track to the final one. Honestly one of the best albums of 2019. Zayn is very talented and makes excellent music. We need more like him!… Expand
  11. JMalik
    Dec 26, 2018
    6
    so lets walk trough this....track by track.
    1.Let Me....Good song, its not Pillowtalk but its a decent track that works fine as an album
    opener. 2.Natural....obviously u can hear MYKL touch on this one, production-wise, it's like dRunK meets Michael jackson's Earth Song..weird..mehh..the only thing memorable here is the high notes..Next!! 3.Back To Life....Nice slow tempo song with    so lets walk trough this....track by track.
    1.Let Me....Good song, its not Pillowtalk but its a decent track that works fine as an album
    opener.
    2.Natural....obviously u can hear MYKL touch on this one, production-wise, it's like dRunK meets
    Michael jackson's Earth Song..weird..mehh..the only thing memorable here is the high notes..Next!!
    3.Back To Life....Nice slow tempo song with disco vibes carried by electric guitars.
    4. Common....For me, a standout track in both albums..once again the Hannides Bros. always deliver,
    this song got good lyrics, good arrangments and vocals.
    5. Imprint...If "iTs YoU" was the self proclaimed Centerpiece of MoM(I respectfully
    disagree),"Imprint" Along with "Scripted", should be the Centerpieces of this one. I also think
    that they kinda belong to MoM(If they were, MoM would be so SOLID and EVEN MORE COHESIVE RECORD),
    maybe its the mood they have, maybe its because they are way too good, any way, this song is soo
    simple and so damn good.
    6.Stand Still....mmmmm, this one is weird, but the Highlight here is the guitar at the end,
    GODDAMNIT!!
    7.Tonight....A potential good track when u here the verses that suddenly becomes trash when u here
    the chorus.
    8.Flight of the Stars.....again another weird song, I dunno, maybe its their placement in the album
    that makes me feel like that, it's like there are too many slow tempo/moody songs next to each
    other that kinda makes yuo bored, I really dunno, I love the title though.
    9.If I Got You....Such a generic song doesnt deserve to be in this record at all, I hate this
    song..NEXT!!
    10.Talk To Me...Finally a brighter song after a while, with Urban/Tropical feelings, the thing here
    its that I personally believe that Z hasn't figure out that he sings F***ing AWESOME and he doesnt
    need to change the way he sings(I am talking 'bout the verses here, I dont like when he doesnt
    project his voice not even a bit, He does that sometimes, He needs to realize that he doesnt have
    to do that to sound mature).
    11.There You Are...Definetly a POP song in this album, GOOD song , it reminiscens 1D in all ways
    here, nice memories to remember.
    12.I Dont Mind...It stars with a DJ Kalhed piano, it reminds me of "Do You Mind" by Dj Khaled,
    again the song is ok cause for me, it never goes where it should.
    13.Icarus Interlude....mmm..What Can I say about this song?I ve heard it several times now and I
    dont like the melody in the guitar..I know its suppossed to be dark and all that **** but NOOO,
    there is NO WAY you call that guitar sound MUSIC, it DOESNT FIT , IT JUST DOESNT, which brings me
    to my next point.
    14.Good Guy...i didnt like it ata all at the beginning, but then i read the lyrics and it kinda built up eventually, the guitar sample was sick!!!
    15.You Wish You Knew...decent track.
    16. Sour Diesel...The first song I ve ever heard in my life that reminds me of Seinfield TV SitCom,
    that Base at the end!!, its a good song, it feels like one of those reock n roll driven songs that
    Michael Jackson had and they were good, but that Base, its a NONONO.
    17.Satisfaction...another decent track AGAIN, it kinda bores cause like OTHER TRACKS HERE never
    goes anywhere, though its worth listening.
    18. Scripted....Meet Frank Oceans Channel Orange lost child, this song belongs to that record, its
    sooo brilliant, its perfect, I guess we know who's behind this(Malay)
    19.Entertainer...I am tired of typing at this moment..."sighs"..ok..quickly ..we all know this song
    a while ago now and there isnt much to say bout it.
    20.All That...AGAIN it doesnt deserve to be in this record AT ALL.
    21.Good Years...Nice Ballad with some real High Notes, another diss to his 1D times(not like
    bEfOuR) but either way, try not to listen to this one too much you might get bored of it.
    22.Fresh Air...One of Z's worst songs ever!!
    23.Rainberry..an OK song with good lyrics and bad production. 24.Insomnia..another track here that fails to deliver, this time its because of the verses (DAMN!!)the chorus reminds me of a Justin T song back when he did Justified, and I like that, but the verses ..NO NO NO 25.No Candle No Light...How many time do I have to type this?? IT DOESNT DESERV..... 26.Fingers......mehh...lyrics are nice 27.Too Much.....Timbaland can do better and We know it, but ..decent effort, finally, this songs becomes repetitive like some others I mentioned earlier, they never go anywhere. So Zayn, I think we all agree here when we say that ther was no need to put 27 tracks at all. I think you should go and talk to Kehlani or SZA or Jhene Aiko and ask them how do I make a PR&B album, with good arrangments and production?Just because you throw in some random sounds, that DOESNT make it experimental R&B, No ZAYN, NO!!!    … Expand
  12. tainara
    Dec 24, 2018
    10
    Album muito bom, Parabéns. Best best best best best best best best best best
  13. alexolisiq
    Dec 23, 2018
    10
    Zayn did not disappoint, besides bringing an album full of his compositions, the quality of each song is so terrifying, in addition to exploring his voice well, he can touch the heart of what he hears.
  14. Gods_Son23
    Dec 23, 2018
    8
    Some 'people' are whinging over the length of this album like no one has released double albums before. Sit your ADHD a$$ down and move on to EPs. I mean, we are in the age of streaming where after one listen it's so easy to remove the songs you don't like or consider filler. You don't have to hit skip as if it's a CD or fast forward/rewind like it's the 80s. For 27 songs the consistencySome 'people' are whinging over the length of this album like no one has released double albums before. Sit your ADHD a$$ down and move on to EPs. I mean, we are in the age of streaming where after one listen it's so easy to remove the songs you don't like or consider filler. You don't have to hit skip as if it's a CD or fast forward/rewind like it's the 80s. For 27 songs the consistency is fairly good here. Even with the amount of songs the best don't touch the high points of his debut but there isn't much I don't like and there are about 10 I've already put into my best of R&B playlist. Good, chill R&B with plenty of memorable hooks.… Expand
  15. gabrielcipriano
    Dec 21, 2018
    10
    I have no words for this album, there are no tiresome songs and only quality! The album can be a bit tiring because it has many tracks, but the quality compensates more than an hour listening. Compositions, incredible sound! Zayn has only been evolving ever more.
  16. Max_Graves
    Dec 20, 2018
    9
    I'm in love and I want to fall in love. There are so many layers to the symbolism in this project. Zayn is obsessed with someone and doesn't care who knows. Everything about this is deeply romantic and emotional. I find myself returning to it repeatedly since the first download. It grows on you pretty heavily after about the third listen. With each listen, you feel like you're finallyI'm in love and I want to fall in love. There are so many layers to the symbolism in this project. Zayn is obsessed with someone and doesn't care who knows. Everything about this is deeply romantic and emotional. I find myself returning to it repeatedly since the first download. It grows on you pretty heavily after about the third listen. With each listen, you feel like you're finally comprehending what it is he's trying to convey beneath the surface level a little better. Standout tracks for me are Tonight, There you are, and Scripted. Tons of references in this one, but if you're like me you'll enjoy trying to uncover them!… Expand
  17. DonTerry
    Dec 20, 2018
    10
    This album is long as hell and I didn't know if my attention span could handle it, but once you dig in it's easy to see there are two separate albums in one. The first half is an outpouring. It's an extensive declaration of love and several affectionate letters to one person. The second half is where the lyrics become more introspective and creative and the sound varies wildly. The firstThis album is long as hell and I didn't know if my attention span could handle it, but once you dig in it's easy to see there are two separate albums in one. The first half is an outpouring. It's an extensive declaration of love and several affectionate letters to one person. The second half is where the lyrics become more introspective and creative and the sound varies wildly. The first half is wonderful and moody and a nice cohesive vibe. The second half is creative, playful, and fun. Several good bops in both halves. Favourite track is Sour Diesel.… Expand
  18. arcane123
    Dec 20, 2018
    10
    I am highly impressed by this album Zayn's voice is so charismatic and soulful and songs are so amazing a highly recommended album
  19. Gabo_Hz24
    Dec 20, 2018
    10
    Amo todo de este álbum, desde los falsetes de Zayn, sus sonidos misteriosos pero a la vez encantadores, es genial que este álbum este lleno de tantos géneros a los que Zayn supo acomodar de una forma excelente para así darle vida a esta maravillosa obra de arte. Felicitaciones Z
  20. pursuingdreams
    Dec 20, 2018
    9
    Overall a decent and cool album. The music sounds enigmatic and his voice is attractive and perfect. Zayn is one of the best vocalists in the world. Most of the songs are compelling while others are not so good. But no song stands out, meaning that none of the songs has the potential to be a hit single. That's probably the reason why he flops(no shade I'm his fan). He could delete severalOverall a decent and cool album. The music sounds enigmatic and his voice is attractive and perfect. Zayn is one of the best vocalists in the world. Most of the songs are compelling while others are not so good. But no song stands out, meaning that none of the songs has the potential to be a hit single. That's probably the reason why he flops(no shade I'm his fan). He could delete several tracks to make the album a little bit shorter and make 1 or 2 unforgettable songs with catchy hooks. Hope he can run better on charts and make better albums.
    Best: Let Me, Natural, Back to Life, Common, Tonight, There You Are, Entertainer, All That, Good Years, Rainberry, No Candle No Light
    Worst: Talk To Me, Icarus Interlude, You Wish You Knew, Fresh Air    … Expand
  21. Iscowolf
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    I love the way it's so deep and meaningful, vocals are on point and the lyrics and beats are amazing.
  22. Zicarus_falls
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    This is by far the best album of all time. Each song is telling you a different story and yet they are all so beautifully in sync and these days it's really hard to find an artist like Z who is not only producing great music but also teach a lesson behind each and every song. Teaching you not to be "so far ahead of yourself" like Icarus. The album truly is worth the wait and a masterpiece.This is by far the best album of all time. Each song is telling you a different story and yet they are all so beautifully in sync and these days it's really hard to find an artist like Z who is not only producing great music but also teach a lesson behind each and every song. Teaching you not to be "so far ahead of yourself" like Icarus. The album truly is worth the wait and a masterpiece. I couldn't be more proud of zayn with the piece of art he has created. He has given a piece of himself through music and this album, insight to all those demons he faced all alone but now here he is standing stronger than ever with so much more courage, determination and a desire to achieve the goal he's set. Icarus Falls is like a wake-up call for all of us that he isn't what media is portraying him as through 'you wish you knew' he is giving the message to all those who didn't believe in him or betrayed him along the way also stating that he doesn't want to disappoint himself, making those good headlines yet in the end not getting anything good or fruitful in return and just those bad/hurtful comments. This album needs the recognition it deserves on so many platforms. Because not only did he create something unique he also formulated something one could relate to through music in the day to day life: love, pain, betrayal, loneliness, longing, passion, lust, desire, truth, trust these are just some of the themes across the album. I am in love with all 27 tracks. I love you Zayn, you did it, hun.… Expand
  23. Mdenney
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    This album was honestly worth the long wait that we had to endure over the last two years. Each song shares an intimate detail and a view of his own, giving us an insight to his inner workings and what was important to him. He needs to change his full name to Zayn Malik Did That, because that is exactly what he did: That. I am incredibly proud of this man and can't wait to continueThis album was honestly worth the long wait that we had to endure over the last two years. Each song shares an intimate detail and a view of his own, giving us an insight to his inner workings and what was important to him. He needs to change his full name to Zayn Malik Did That, because that is exactly what he did: That. I am incredibly proud of this man and can't wait to continue supporting him through it all.… Expand
  24. KatthyDee
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    Every song is an experience. This album legit makes me want to fall in love and make love nonstop. It's such a damn vibe. I can't get over his voice, so soothing and sweet and romantic. There is a ton of themes and symbolism in this album, but at the surface, it's just good vibes and incredible vocals. Well done Zayn!
  25. MelSK1989
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    The vocals. The lyrics. The production. The vibe. Unbelievable. That is all.
  26. cat_schrodinger
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    so versatile voice. so much vibe in one album. ballad, beat, retro, r&b, pop, soulful, and more with quality sound and vocal. we can 'say he improves from the first album
  27. AishVagh04
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    Where some have made an issue out of the length of the album, I would like to say that Icarus Falls is something that totally defines true emotion of music. Music in today's era have changed from soulful lyrics to some cool beats that catches someone's ear. But Icarus Falls touches to that part of the feelings that directly come through heart. It makes you laugh, and even makes you cry. ItWhere some have made an issue out of the length of the album, I would like to say that Icarus Falls is something that totally defines true emotion of music. Music in today's era have changed from soulful lyrics to some cool beats that catches someone's ear. But Icarus Falls touches to that part of the feelings that directly come through heart. It makes you laugh, and even makes you cry. It has every kind of emotion. Zayn truly opens his soul out in this album. Like he's telling a tale of a man hopelessly in love. Who's ready to do anything possible to be with his love but struggles with different complications in his way. Each of the 27 tracks tells a different tale of different time periods. But what's more amazing is the way Zayn puts it out so passionately. All I could say is that it won't disappoint you if you're looking for music that touches your soul with its lyrics and beautifully set background. For me Icarus Falls is the Album of the Year.… Expand
  28. NHcat
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    Based on what was released as singles and promo singles for this album I didn't expect it to surpass Mind of Mine. However, the album exceeded my expectations and is easily the best of 2018. Whether you listen in one go and experience the project as a whole or you stream random tracks as you shuffle through your library, you will not be disappointed. I did 2 separate full listens and wasBased on what was released as singles and promo singles for this album I didn't expect it to surpass Mind of Mine. However, the album exceeded my expectations and is easily the best of 2018. Whether you listen in one go and experience the project as a whole or you stream random tracks as you shuffle through your library, you will not be disappointed. I did 2 separate full listens and was overwhelmed with emotion as I let the story unfold. Technically the vocals and production are among the best I've ever heard. Zayn is like a chameleon, altering his voice to fit various genres and moods. His range is unmatched and the emotion he conveys is unparalleled. Each time you listen to a song again you will find new intricacies and nuances to enjoy. If you are a Zayn fan you will feel connected to your idol like never before. If you are just a general music lover you will discover a new artist to add to your list of musical favorites. Would rate higher than 10 if I could!… Expand
  29. izzieonline
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    In an era where music has become so impersonal, where the lyrics have less weight than the music, and where it’s become less about touching someone’s soul and more about finding a beat that catches someone’s ear, it’s so rare to see an album that takes you back to the time where you can identify with the feelings inspired by a song. That’s precisely what Icarus Falls does. It makes youIn an era where music has become so impersonal, where the lyrics have less weight than the music, and where it’s become less about touching someone’s soul and more about finding a beat that catches someone’s ear, it’s so rare to see an album that takes you back to the time where you can identify with the feelings inspired by a song. That’s precisely what Icarus Falls does. It makes you sad, happy, and everything in between. The title itself promises an intriguing tale of a fallen man, and the 27 tracks do not disappoint. Today where 140 characters have become the limit to hold our attention, some have made an issue of the length of the album. If you’re looking for a record that has a couple of good songs and the rest fodder, this is not it. This is an album where each song is a chapter that tells the story of a man in love, but whose life complications get in the way of that love. It’s never dull, it’s not exhaustive, and you will not be disappointed. In my humble opinion, Icarus Falls is one of the best albums you will purchase in this and the coming year.… Expand
  30. millert799
    Dec 19, 2018
    10
    Zayn stretches his music to new levels with a bit of something for everyone! Don't understand why people are saying it's too long, since when is more of a good thing a bad thing? It's the type of album that depending on your mood a new song jumps out as a favorite with every listen.
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Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Most Discussed Album of 2018
90
#90 Most Shared Album of 2018

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
70

Generally favorable reviews - based on 9 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 9
  3. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. NOW Magazine
    Jan 31, 2019
    80
    It’s an inward, headphones-on plug into a young man wrestling with varying levels of success, from codependency and addictive behaviour to self-acceptance. It’s the sound of Zayn grappling with toxic masculinity.
    Read full review
  2. The Observer (UK)
    Dec 26, 2018
    60
    Once you accept the intimidating length and occasional clumsy lyric (see: “An attack of the mind / like Optimus Prime in his prime”), there’s plenty here to appreciate.
    Read full review
  3. Consequence
    Dec 20, 2018
    58
    Icarus Falls has a lot of songs and some of them are quite good. As a vehicle for blitzing the internet with Zayn singles, the album is totally effective. But the concept is only half-conceived, and the listening experience is repetitive and dull.
    Read full review
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