After Changmin’s Japanese solo album last year, TVXQ’s Yunho is up next. The two previously released solo albums in Japan prior to their 2015 enlistment, and Yunho’s is well worth tracking down if you can. I’m forever salty that Bang wasn’t promoted as a single, and hope that the new album will contain something similar. For now, we’ll have to do with Kimi wa Saki e Iku and its moody music video.
This song takes Yunho down a well-tread path. It’s slinky and groovy – fast enough to dance to but never breathless or heart-racing in tempo. Much of this is due to the instrumental, which opts for muted keys and a shuffling beat that keeps the energy in check. It recalls many TVXQ songs, but the arrangement isn’t as dynamic. Like Changmin’s Human, Kimi wa Saki e Iku chooses to play things relatively straightforward.
This lithe sound fits Yunho well, and his smooth vocals match the intent of the production, delivering shots of falsetto to compliment the airy vibe. The melody is laid-back but effective, especially during the chorus. But, as a full package I find Kimi wa Saki e Iku a little… boring? It’s the kind of song that would fit well within an album, but not a highlight I’d find myself racing back to. However, it gets bonus points for Yunho himself, who brings excitement and passion to any project he tackles. And, I have a feeling the restrained melodic hooks will sink their teeth in eventually.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 7 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 7.75 |