The Chuseok-related K-pop drought ends today with the first solo debut from popular group TXT. Over the years, Yeonjun has become a sort of ‘it boy’ within his generation, so it’s no surprise that he’s given the chance to showcase his skills as a soloist. As always, I’m most interested to see what his music borrows from TXT and where it differs. With GGUM, he finds a blend between hip-hop and quirky electro-pop, resulting in a track that’s sure to polarize opinion.
Whatever your thoughts on the song’s quality, GGUM certainly can’t be accused of playing things safe. It’s a weird little track, often warping Yeonjun’s vocals into a high-pitched alter ego. This unfolds over a dynamic beat that mixes EDM bombast with more typical hip-hop swagger. This blend reminded me immediately of late-2000’s Black Eyed Peas. Whether that’s a compliment or not, I’ll leave up to you. Even I’m not sure at this moment! Whatever it is, GGUM is a catchy novelty. Like its titular reference, it will stick in your brain whether you like it or not.
While GGUM‘s novelty is ear-catching on first listen, I have my doubts about its longevity. Apart from its many sonic tricks, there’s really not much happening within the song itself. The hook is repetitive and uninteresting and the verses are standard idol rap dressed in a fancy package. More than anything, the track feels like a showcase for Yeonjun’s obvious charisma. I’d challenge him to meld that charisma to an equally-compelling song next time around.
Hooks
7
Production
8
Longevity
7
Bias
8
RATING
7.5