Kep1er’s future as a group remains unsteady, with activities set to end in early July unless their contract is extended. I’m not sure if we’ll get another Korean comeback before that point, but for now fans can enjoy a new Japanese album from the group. Some of their strongest material has been released in Japan — particularly this excellent b-side.
Straight Line gives Kep1er’s sound an interesting makeover. It has its sleek, mature moments, but the overall arrangement is stuffed with so many sonic switch-ups that it’s almost difficult to appreciate its strengths. What opens as a slightly Latin-tinged pop track soon segues into a grab bag of percussive breakdowns before smoothing into a sleek, brass-kissed chorus. Each of these elements is compelling on its own, but I’m not sure how well they gel together.
A second verse rap further changes things, at odds with the melodic refrain that preceded it. Then, we’ve got a 90’s hip-hop breakbeat bridge. You know… just for good measure! Straight Line isn’t billed as “mixx pop,” but it certainly feels like it. As always with this style, you want the song to feel like more than a fancy highlight medley. For me, this usually necessitates one or two core melodies that offer natural high points. Straight Line‘s chorus supplies this ingredient, though the hook could be developed even more. However, the song gets extra points for its willingness to throw everything at the wall.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
8.25