Critics seem to agree that “The Show” is Niall Horan’s best work. Seemingly in his “Lover” era, Horan created an album about a once in a lifetime love that is equally inspiring and passionate.

After rising to near-instant fame in 2010 with his former band One Direction, Horan made a name for himself as a solo artist in 2016 with his first hit-single “This Town.” Horan immediately proved himself as more than just a member of a boy band and successfully gained his own fanbase.

For those who have been a fan of Horan since the start of One Direction, they’ll notice how nicely “Save My Life” could fit on their third album “Four.” They may also notice how well “The Show” portrays the “golden retriever boy” public persona Horan has had since first appearing on “X-Factor.” The perspective of someone who simply wants their partner to feel loved and protected while showing his own insecurities comes so naturally from Horan’s voice.

“Never Grow Up” expresses a fear of a relationship changing with age while wanting to keep their current life forever. This fear continues into the next song and breaks through the lyrics of the next track, “The Show,” while adding the uncertainties of life and success. “Hold tight, get ready for the ride / If everythin’ was easy, nothin’ ever broke / If everythin’ was simple, how would we know?”

Surprisingly, “You Could Start A Cult” is the most beautiful love ballad on the album. Horan’s mystery love (most likely current girlfriend Amelia Woolley) is described as someone so beautifully mesmerizing they could have endless admirers. This song is the peak of an album largely about being completely in love and infatuated with someone.

“Heaven” was the single that gave fans the first taste of what “The Show” would be. This single, which was highly anticipated due to the countless TikToks posted to Horan’s account promoting the song, came with an acoustic version. Horan and his guitar make an unmatched duo and is the thing missing from the album. The acoustic version of “Heaven” deserved a spot on the album over the version that made the cut.

Horan creates a guardian-like tone to the album, reiterating the protective narrative the lyrics provide in songs like “Meltdown.” “I’m tellin’ you now / When it all melts down I’ll be there.”

Rating: 9/10