Originally debuting as a main rapper in EXO, Chanyeol has gone on to release several solo singles in a variety of genres. He may not be a powerhouse vocalist within the group, but his tone has an easily identifiable charm suited to rock and indie music. Black Out comes from his first official solo album of the same name and offers an acoustic approach.
Listening to the album’s highlight medley, Black Out seemed to be one of its most subdued songs. This isn’t what you’d expect from a title track, but I can see why the agency might have wanted to promote it. Its hazy sound echoes many popular male soloists on the global stage, from Styles to Bieber. It’s a nice match for Chanyeol, putting his vocal texture front and center. But as a piece of music, Black Out is rather dull and one-note.
My biggest issue with Black Out is that it feels like twenty seconds of song stretched over three minutes, resulting in a track that plays as a flat line without any notable peaks. Obviously, bombast wouldn’t have complemented this genre, but greater melodic diversity and more specific instrumental touchstones could have provided a compelling structure. Instead, Black Out spins its wheels — very pleasant but quite forgettable.
Hooks
7
Production
7
Longevity
8
Bias
7
RATING
7.25