Nine years into their career, Twice continue to straddle the line between various music markets, frequently releasing work in Korea, Japan and internationally. New single Dive heralds their latest J-pop album, hinting at a more mature summer sound.
Twice have released their share of bangers in Japan, often mirroring the soundscapes present in their Korean work. If we’re making comparisons between markets, we’d have to head back all the way to 2021’s Alcohol-Free to find a single this laidback and unbothered. But while that track harnessed a subtly addictive bossa nova sound that paid dividends down the road, I’m less certain that Dive will be as big a grower.
The modus operandi this time seems to be “chill.” At no point does Dive exert itself in a way that might turn heads. The chorus gets closest, kicking off with a powerful vocal before quickly subduing. The entire song is draped in a hazy veil of sonic humidity. It’s as if the world has slowed and we’re pushing through a wall of thick air. This may be a great cure for anxious nerves, but doesn’t make for a particularly interesting pop song. Twice have enough charm and goodwill to carry even the slightest of material, but Dive looks to be a rare summer skip for me.
Hooks
7
Production
7
Longevity
8
Bias
7
RATING
7.25