On the surface, Say My Name may seem like a typical new girl group, but they have an interesting mentor. They’re the first idol act from INKODE, the agency co-founded by ex-TVXQ member Kim Jaejoong. Jaejoong often interacts with younger idol groups as part of his variety work, but this is the first time we’ve seen him take creative reigns outside his solo material. Given his history, you might expect a rock-influenced act. However, Say My Name’s WaveWay is far more predictable girl group fare.
Given its backstory, I so wanted to love WaveWay. After all, there’s not much point in debuting a new group unless you’re willing to establish a unique vision for their career. Instead, WaveWay sounds as if it could have come from just about anyone. Its mid-tempo groove is reminiscent of the subdued trap-pop sound so popular in the late-2010’s and the airy melodies echo much of the beige songwriting we find these days. It’s an uninspiring combination, to say the least.
Rather than compel or repulse, WaveWay does… nothing. There’s not enough happening to evoke much reaction. Nothing about the melody, performance or instrumental sticks out, choosing instead to play things straight down the middle. But with so many other acts available to listeners, I’m not sure what about Say My Name makes them the group we should choose to stream. I’ve listened to this song several times and I can’t remember much about it at all.
Hooks
7
Production
6
Longevity
7
Bias
7
RATING
6.75