The year is only a few days old, but we already have a new debut! The five-member Geenius hail from Sure Place Music & Creative, but had previous ties with the embattled Blockberry Creative. Their first digital single Voyage shows promise, even if its unfocused nature ultimately makes for a frustrating listen.
In my recent “K-pop resolutions” post, I longed for girl groups to pick up the melodic mantle left by groups like WJSN, Lovelyz and Kara. Parts of Voyage seem to emulate this sound, employing a spacey, synth-dripped approach over thumping dance beats. The first verse is especially promising, though it quickly devolves into sing-talk.
A slow pre-chorus blunts momentum before Voyage rights itself with a more bombastic chorus. The melodies don’t hit as hard as they should here and the arrangement feels a bit hesitant, but the song’s heart is in the right place. Unfortunately, the energy stalls too often throughout the track to deliver the emotional wallop I’d hope for. For now, Voyage plays like a teaser for stronger things to come. I appreciate many of the elements it’s playing with. They just need to be tightened and expanded upon in the future.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
8