In a strange twist, the sweet, ultra-melodic girl group sound I came to love (think: Lovelyz, GFriend, April) has found a new home with fifth-gen boy groups. TWS are the most popular act tackling a bright, bubbly style but prior to their debut The Wind offered their take on the genre. Their Our: YouthTeen album remains one of my 2024 favorites and now they’ve returned with the nostalgic Hello, My First Love (반가워, 나의 첫사랑).
Member Chanwon re-joins the group for this comeback and the song was composed by their Avengers team of KZ, Nthonius, Meisobo, DINT and 1984. This is the first time The Wind has fully tackled young love as a concept and the music echoes this transformation. It feels more openly emotional than usual, taking time to move through distinct segments. The nearly-acapella opening and bridge work extremely well, while the effusive finale has major Plot Twist energy.
What I find most interesting about Hello, My First Love is its melody. While many current K-pop tracks feel like they’re reaching for international audiences, this is a song that could have only come from Korea. The refrains echo classic melodic structures popular in the 90’s and early 2000’s — themselves built upon the inexorably linked influence of trot music. This deep well of sentiment feels unique and specific — two factors I always seek out in pop music. I’m delighted The Wind have continued to pursue this musical lane.
Hooks
9
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
8.75