Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally is finally with us – HS4 really did drop at midnight this time.
We all expected the fourth album from pop megastar Harry Styles to be a disco album (… because of the title, and the disco ball on the cover), and it is, in places. But there’s a lot more going on here too.
You can tell he’s spent a lot of time in Berlin, which means the disco here is pretty modern, but it’s all still quite tame. This is a pop album at its core and it needs to be one that will fill stadiums (that are already sold out).
And long-time Harry Styles fans will be pleased to find a few stripped-back ballads alongside the heavily-produced bigger tracks.
He kept us waiting for this one, but was it worth the wait?
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Here’s my (completely subjective) ranking of every track on the album, based off precisely one listen. I might end up eating my words after a second go-around…
Every song on Harry Styles’ Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally, ranked
I’m finding this one a bit annoying until it gets to about the 1.45 mark and builds. I’m all for experimenting with new sounds but it’s all a little disjointed and messy. ‘What drum effect would you like for this one, Harry’ – ‘All of them please’.
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You know that feeling you get when you’re boiling the kettle and the extractor fan’s on and the microwave’s going and then your phone starts vibrating and it’s too much noise? Same energy.
11. Paint By Numbers (Track 11)
Bored. Have gone to make a cup of tea.
10. The Waiting Game (Track 6)
I know the girlies have been crying for a Harry ballad like Matilda, but you can’t really have one now because he’s been to Berghain and it’s changed him. He likes synths now.
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This one is a close contender though. It’s nice enough but there’s not a whole lot of substance.
9. Are You Listening Yet? (Track 4)
Oh no, speak-singing, in his odd Cheshire-LA accent too (listen to the way he says ‘dancing’). Even with that crescendo with the choir near the end it’s a bit of a plodder. NEXT.
8. American Girls (Track 2)
Idk much about music terminology but whatever key he’s singing in here is scratching my brain just right. I feel like a dog when you scratch the part of their belly that makes their leg shake.
This is a really nice second track and I already know I’m going to regret ranking it so low after a few more listens. But that’s not the point of this ranking. Eighth place for you, American Girls.
7. Coming Up Roses (Track 8)
OH HANG ON, we have a string section! I’m awake again! YES HARRY STRIP IT BACK!! I take back what I said for The Waiting Game, the sad ballad girlies will lap this up. Can’t wait to hold my phone torch up in Co-op Live for this one.
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6. Pop (Track 9)
The baseline on this has melted my spine (complimentary). I want to put my head inside the subwoofer. I much prefer the verses to the chorus but can imagine this one will go off in a live setting. To the dance floor!
5. Dance No More (Track 10)
Dance No More? Don’t tell me sh*t like that then hit me with a funky beat like this, Harry! I’m a sucker for a funky indie band (see: Parcels, Phoenix, Jungle, etc etc) so this was always going to work for me.
4. Aperture (Track 1)
Obviously this is not my first listen of this song. Now that we have the context of the rest of the album I can see why this was the lead single. I’ve liked it from the get-go and still do. But if you don’t like this song, you might not love what’s coming.
3. Ready, Steady, Go (Track 3)
More like OK Go, amirite?! Again, the harmonies in this are simply heavenly in the verses, I have been beamed right up. The megaphone vocals in the chorus might divide some people though. Funky little baseline may even tempt me off the couch even at this hour (it’s 7am).
2. Taste Back (Track 5)
This a bit more like old Harry. I can absolutely imagine myself walking to the tram in the morning with this in my ears feeling like the world’s not so shite after all. Might even frolic in a field to this one in summer. Very lovely.
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1. Carla’s Song (Track 12)
Talk about saving the best til last! This is really reminiscent of another song, can’t put my finger on it, but I feel transported and immersed and all other good things music should make you feel. His vocals are stunninggggg in this.
A guide to an SK in the sunshine – 15 of the best beer gardens and bars with outdoor seating in Stockport
Lydia Mastrolonardo
Whether you’re a Stockport resident, local to spend some time back home, or even just want to escape the bustle of Manchester when the sun is shining, the town located just seven minutes away by train is perfect for a day out in the pubs – and it’s got some great beer gardens to boot.
So, if you’re hoping to soak up some rays with a pint but are new to the area, or you simply can’t keep up with all of those new spots popping up in the Underbank recently – look no further.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re after a simple boozer or one of those more stylish suburban bars that continue to pop up in the borough (it’s the ‘New Berlin’, we’ve heard), we’ve got you covered.
Here’s hoping the sun sticks around so we can try and test more sun traps for you; it’s very important and gruelling research, promise, but somebody’s got to do it!
The best beer gardens and top outdoor drinking spots in Stockport
1. The Good Rebel – Underbank
Since popping up in Little Underbank in 2019, The Good Rebel, just down on Mealhouse Brow, has become a solid option for some class beers in the warm weather.
With their courtyard tucked away at the side of the building (shhh), this one is easily missed if you’re not in the know, but lucky for you, we can’t gatekeep our favourites forever
Fear not: they also have plenty of parasols/umbrellas to hide from the sun if you burn easily.
— @thegoodrebelstockport (@thegoodrebelsk1) March 24, 2024
2. The Underbank – guess?…
This new beer hall and margarita bar is hard to miss, with the tables at the front of the building positioned in the prime spot at the end/start of Underbank, depending on who you ask, capturing all of the sunshine.
While they specialise in Margaritas, they have a wide selection of drinks including some classic beers, not to mention they serve slices of Gatto sourdough pizzaat £4 a slice, which is arguably some of the best pizza in Greater Manchester.
@the.manc Ran (and cooked) by the lovely Dan, @Gatto is all about proper fermentation and quality toppings, we’re talking vodka cream and sausage, crispy pepperoni, and a simple but stunning marg, finished with a fresh dusting of grade A parm. 🧀 If you’re into sourdough pizzas with a bit of personality, this one’s well worth checking out. 📍 27 Great Underbank, Stockport SK1 1LN #themanc#stockportpizza#stockportfoodie#wheretoeatinstockport#underbank♬ original sound – The Manc
3. The Runaway Brewery and Tap Room – Astley Street
This independent micro-brewery in the heart of Stockport prides itself on quality modern beer and local charm; plus, being only a few minutes away from the bus and train stations, it’s easily accessible from all over the region, so nobody has to miss out.
It is a fantastic indoor and outdoor space, with Honest Crust supplying some seriously good seasonal sourdough pizza – what’s not to like? We’ve been going here since way back when and we don’t intend on stopping any time soon.
4. The Angel Inn – Stockport Marketplace
This historic listed pub, one of Stockport’s oldest buildings built in the 16th century, has forever been a cornerstone of the community and continues to maintain this title among the locals.
Following its reopening in 2018, The Angel Inn has been restored as a modern town pub focused on cask beer, with a quaint little patio out back which often hosts live music and is very popular in summer.
With such a longstanding reputation as a top boozer and even a Grade II-listing now, you’d be crazy not to come and check it out for yourself.
Just a short walk away from Stockport’s Underbank, you can find this secret sun trap. Hidden away at the back of the pub is a stylish courtyard, perfect for summer.
The Red Bull also hosts monthly live music events of varying genres, darts, and if you’re feeling lucky, there’s a quiz every Wednesday from 7:30pm. Why not come on down early and soak up some rays in the courtyard for extra luck; after all, everyone feels more confident with a fresh tan.
Being so close to native ale experts Robinson’s Brewery, they’ve got a steady supply of local favourites coming regularly from nearby.
At the centre of Stockport’s ‘Old Town’ and Market district is Bakers Vaults – a great pub with plenty of character and a decent-sized outdoor seating area perfect for people watching, looking out onto the historic marketplace where there’s always plenty going on.
With an award-winning drinks range, including more Robbie’s brews, amazing food all day and live music in the evenings, this isn’t one to miss.
Not to mention there are plenty of other pubs and bars nearby, which makes for a class pub crawl.
Right next door, you can find the Produce Hall, with an unreal spot on Market Place to soak up the sun and some sensational food options to go with your drinks.
This building has always hosted a variety of stalls supplying delicious foods and drinks for the last 160+ years. Today is no different, with a whole host of different kitchens wrapping around the interior of the building, whether you want soul food, pizza or asian fried chicken – there’s something for everyone.
With so much to choose from, the real dilemma is picking what to eat with your pints; here’s just one suggestion for you:
Another one with a cracking history, this multi-award-winning, self-proclaimed ‘ale shrine’ simply has to make it onto your list for this summer.
The building itself has held importance since the early 19th century, and the pub continues to be a local favourite boasting live entertainment and a sought-after quiz, with many also commenting on its tasteful decor and delicious home-cooked meals. We can see why it’s so popular.
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As one of CAMRA’s regularly listed pubs and having been awarded both regional and national pub of the year, serving some top-quality cask beers, it’s a no-brainer.
Only a stone’s throw from Stockport train and bus stations is the historic Magnet Freehouse – a family-run pub that boasts a selection of 14 continually changing ales from micro-breweries, as well as a permanent selection of quality beers and cider.
They also have locally sourced pork pies on offer, along with other classic pub snacks and stonebaked pizzas from their onsite pizzeria available from Thursday to Saturday.
Magnet Freehouse also boasts a fully equipped games room with a pool table, darts boards, jukebox, board games and colouring books for both adults and children, as well as an extensive beer garden and two terraces serving as perfect elevated sun traps in the summer.
A traditional pub with home-cooked food, a pool table and a large grassy beer garden to the rear that often hosts events in the summer. What more can you ask for?
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Strawberry Gardens is known for its hearty Sunday lunch, entertainment and live sports, which all attract a range of ages from the local community.
We’re not going to argue whether it’s classed as ‘Offy’ or Little Moor these days; all we’ll say is that we’ve made plenty of good memories in here.
Another stylish Stockport pub with a fabulous beer garden, serving Manchester-made beers, cocktails and seasonal pub food, is located in Heaton Moor.
‘The Liz’ offers a blend of small plates and pub classics, including a raved-about Sunday roast with bottomless gravy and Yorkshire puddings.
They also have some fantastic deals such as: a free drink to be had when you buy a pie every Monday, or on Wednesday buy two large glasses of wine and get the rest of the bottle free.
The Puss in Boots is an unreal family-friendly spot for a carvery, with locally sourced and high-quality produce near Heavily and Great Moor, equipped with a magnificent selection of drinks and a beer garden fit for the summer weather.
They also have some exciting events, including live music on the last Saturday of each month and a free pub quiz every Thursday at 8pm.
Just imagine yourself sitting back and relaxing with one (or more – who’s counting?) of the five different spritzes on offer or a jug of Pimm’s in the sunshine, while the kids explore the play area attached to the beer garden. Need we say more?
From bull to big cat, another tastefully decorated Robinson’s pub waiting for you to try is The Red Lion in High Lane, just a short drive from Stockport town centre.
This pub is dog-friendly with a great outdoor seating area and only a short distance from Lyme Park, making it the perfect stop for a post-walk crisp pint this summer.
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They also have a cracking menu with an amazing Sunday roast and wine deal, which seals the deal, putting it up there as one of our favourite pubs for a Sunday afternoon pub trip.
One of our all-time favourites is the Jolly Sailor, a short walk from Davenport train station, and right near Woodsmoor and Bramhall a bit further down the road.
The Jolly is especially popular with the locals due to its extensive drinks menu, live music and large beer garden to the rear, perfect for soaking up some sunshine by day and heaters for staying cosy during summer evenings.
While known for their carvery, they also have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free/NGI menus, making the kind of traditional family-friendly pub accessible to all.
They’ve got a bit of everything. (Credit: Jolly Sailor via Facebook)
15. The Midway – Portwood
One of the most highly regarded pubs in Stockport, having won multiple awards including ‘Pub of the Year’ and ‘Stockport’s Best Sunday Lunch’, is The Midway with a fantastic beer garden.
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The Midway isn’t that far from Vernon Park, Red Rock or The Plaza Theatre and cinema, making it the perfect place to factor in a lovely meal and some drinks before and/or after some entertainment or a stroll in some local greenery.
We hope reading this list got you as excited for summer as it did for us; the question is, did we miss anywhere that you consider among the best beer gardens in Stockport?
Let us know down in the comments.
Regardless, we’ve done the bulk of the hard work for you – now go forth, eat, drink, be merry and enjoy!
Featured Images — Kiana The Artist (via Instagram)/The Manc Group
Opinion
Kings of Leon at Co-op Live, Manchester – blinding in every way
Daisy Jackson
Will Kings of Leon ever lose their ability to sell out enormous arenas in the UK? Based on the cup-slinging, sat-on-shoulders, full-pelt-singing crowd that rushed the Co-op Live on Saturday night – nope.
The American rockers are back out on a short tour, but rather than plugging a new album, this feels like a greatest hits, remember-how-good-we-are-live tour.
It’s a setlist that will please those of us who loved their twangier, garage-rock earlier albums, Youth & Young Manhood and Aha Shake Heartbreak, with live highlights including The Bucket, Molly’s Chambers, Four Kicks, and King of The Rodeo (my personal favourite).
But there’s plenty of their more recent, stadium-worthy rock anthems thrown in too, like the inescapable Sex On Fire. Love it loathe it, you can’t deny its impact when played in a venue of adoring fans.
Kings of Leon arrived in Manchester on 4 July, and dress for the occasion. Jared Followill strolls on stage in a faded, cropped Stars and Stripes tee. Caleb Followill opts for double denim. Nathan Followill is behind the kit in a ‘wife-beater’ vest.
They look every bit the all-American rock band. They must stick out like sore thumbs wandering around the UK between tour dates.
Less impressive is the slightly maddening stage design. The band spend much of the night silhouetted against enormous banks of blinding lights. If you’re looking straight at the stage, it’s like staring directly into the sun for two hours, or accidentally walking into a scrum of paparazzi just as Taylor Swift arrives. Once you accept that you’ll spend the evening partially blinded, though, there’s very little to fault.
Musically, they’re immaculate. Every song sounds as polished as the record, but never sterile. They make it all look absurdly easy, which is hardly surprising given they’ve been playing together for more than 25 years.
Nathan’s especially nonchalant – in the middle of intricate drum fills, he’s chewing bubble gum as if he’s waiting for a bus rather than holding together one of rock’s biggest bands.
There’s an instinctive chemistry between the Followill family members that’s impossible to manufacture. Unlike the Gallagher brothers, who always seem on the verge of putting each other in a headlock, Kings of Leon perform with complete harmony. Every glance and transition feels effortless, the product of decades spent sharing stages together.
The band have been changing their setlist throughout the tour, but nobody expected a heartfelt rendition of America The Beautiful. Unsurprisingly, it’s the only song of the night the British crowd doesn’t sing along to, and it even draws a few boos before the band move swiftly on.
There are reminders throughout of where they came from. Caleb’s unmistakable Tennessee drawl still gives the songs that loose, bluesy Southern character that first set them apart, even as arenas sing every word back to them. During ‘Use Somebody’, he happily hands the chorus over to the crowd with a simple, “Alright, you sing it then,” barely needing to touch the microphone.
When the set finally ends, the band don’t rush off. They linger on stage, tossing guitar picks and sweat-soaked handkerchiefs into the crowd, waving from every corner of the stage and soaking it all in with broad smiles.
After all these years, they still look genuinely grateful to be there. For a band who’ve been doing this for more than two decades, it’s reassuring to see the novelty hasn’t worn off.
Daisy Jackson -
6th March 2026 
