Former One Direction member Niall Horan released his first solo album, Flicker, Oct. 20, and it’s clear he’s taken a step away from his boy-band-pop roots and embraced a singer/songwriter vibe. While a few songs such as “Slow Hands,” one of the album’s leading singles, and “Since We’re Alone” sound similar to some of One Direction’s hits, others are quite diverse.

Songs such as “This Town,” the first lead single, and “Paper Houses” embody the singer/songwriter genre that highlights Horan’s ability to evoke emotion through his vocal range and inflection. His lyrical talent is showcased in “Too Much to Ask,” the album’s final single before release, which was co-written by Jamie Scott. These tracks feature unique melodies with storytelling lyrics that captivate the audience with sound and emotion.

With Horan’s guitar playing—something he was only able to dabble in with One Direction—and folksy sound, Flicker evokes thoughts of The Lumineers or even Ed Sheeran.

Out of the 10 standard edition tracks—or 13 on the deluxe edition—one song titled “Seeing Blind” features country artist Maren Morris and shows Horan’s versatile strengths. The album demonstrates how he has matured since his One Direction days and successfully changed genres.

On first listen, every track might not speak to you. However, if you give it a second chance, it will be hard not to find a little something you can enjoy.