A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.
I’m a little baffled why I enjoy YOUNITE’s new album as much as I do. It’s easily my favorite thing they’ve released, yet it’s filled with the kind of shout-chanting that usually earns an immediate “6” on this blog. However, songs like Geekin work thanks to the excellent beat driving the track. The production across this album reminds me of early-00’s hip-hop — probably the last hip-hop era I felt really invested in. YOUNITE also have great “idol rapper” voices. The performances are as affected as ever, but they sell the swag.
Opening track How We Do sets the scene for the loose, party-starting energy of the album. It’s not particularly ambitious, but the summery groove had my head nodding immediately. I love when hip-hop is paired with this style of bright, funky percussion. Then we have the airy, melodic chorus, coasting along the vibe with an addictive ease. The guys sound great throughout, even in the lyrics are quite repetitive and trite.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
9
Bias
8
RATING
8.5