We hear more Mamamoo solo releases than group comebacks these days, which isn’t surprising given their standing as a veteran idol act. These solo tracks tend to be quite varied — both in sound and execution. Moonbyul impressed earlier this year by swerving in new directions, while Solar delivered both the expected and a sonic surprise. On new single Coco Water, Wheein opts to take things way down, placing her fluttery vocals over a super subdued beat.
Most listeners would probably be content to hear Wheein sing just about anything. After all, her voice in infinitely refreshing — almost like a musical embrace. An overriding sense of calm belies the skill with which she sings, making Coco Water quite pleasant even as it wafts over you like a breeze. The song feels intangible in this way. Its melodies are just as aloof as the performance, though I enjoy the pre-chorus quite a bit.
I would be curious to hear a version of Coco Water with different production. The instrumental is overly generic, never committing to a sound of its own. A compelling blend of (tropical?) synths and more resounding percussion could have grounded the track and given it more heft to counter Wheein’s light-as-air vocal.
Hooks
7
Production
7
Longevity
8
Bias
7
RATING
7.25