Horizons cover

Horizons

Kris Allen · 2014

35 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks set against a backdrop of vibrant pop-rock instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Young Love (“Paul Simon”) — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious melody and themes of youthful romance, encapsulating the overall vibe of hope and nostalgia.
  • →
    Beautiful & Wild — The song stands out due to its evocative lyrics that explore the complexities of love and freedom, showcasing Allen's growth as a songwriter.
  • →
    Everybody Just Wants to Dance — This upbeat anthem captures the carefree spirit of the album, blending lively instrumentals with an inviting chorus that encourages listeners to let loose.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks a unique identity within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a consistent upbeat tempo, while the second half introduces slower ballads that shift the emotional tone.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the melodic hooks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short bursts of catchy melodies
  • feel-good tracks for gatherings
  • light-hearted reflections on love
  • upbeat energy for road trips

Maybe skip if you

  • slow, contemplative listening preferences
  • long-form immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on August 12, 2014, Horizons marked Kris Allen's third studio album, following his self-titled debut in 2009 and the more experimental Thank You Camellia in 2012. At this point in his career, Allen was seeking to redefine his sound after a period of personal growth and exploration post-American Idol fame.
Stylistic neighbors
David Cook· Daughtry· Lifehouse

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Young Love (“Paul Simon”) 3:26
  • 2 Prove It to You 3:34
  • 3 Beautiful & Wild 3:50
  • 4 In Time 3:27
  • 5 Lost 3:18
  • 6 Don’t Set Me Free 3:32
  • 7 Everybody Just Wants to Dance 3:08
  • 8 Parachute 3:17
  • 9 It’s Always You 4:01
  • 10 Girl Across the Room 3:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata