STAYC have leaned further into their quirky side as their career has developed, and that includes their Japanese work. 2022’s Poppy is one of their wackiest tracks, capitalizing on a certain J-pop energy that isn’t always embraced by Korean acts. Despite its silly title, new single Meow is more straight-laced, delivering a brief burst of energy that comes and goes with little impact.
Similar to last month’s Cheeky Icy Thang, Meow feels like an idea in need of development. It’s an odd little track in the sense that, as I’m listening I know things are happening but as soon as it’s finished I feel like nothing has occurred at all. I’d chock this up to a barely-there chorus and verses that do little to distinguish themselves. And at under two-and-a-half minutes, there isn’t much time for Meow to develop into anything more than a colorful diversion. It’s not off-putting or even unenjoyable, but the song doesn’t make a compelling case for its own existence either.
Hooks
7
Production
7
Longevity
7
Bias
7
RATING
7