I feel like I should open this review the exact same way I did the one for ZEROBASEONE’s new Japanese single moments ago. Like ZB1, &TEAM have worked their way into my core five new-gen boy groups, just below the trinity of TWS, RIIZE and BOYNEXTDOOR. Their music has become increasingly strong, harnessing a melodic rock sound that really fits the group. The big difference, of course, is that &TEAM is targeted predominantly toward the Japanese market and hasn’t yet made an official Korean debut (though they’ve recorded Korean versions of their J-pop hits).
Deer Hunter is the third new track to be promoted from their second album, following the seasonal Illumination and the excellent Yukiakari. On first listen, I found Deer Hunter absolutely fine but not particularly noteworthy. These groovy dance tracks are a dime a dozen in J-pop/K-pop, and its minimalist sound isn’t always to my liking. However, repeat listens have brought out the song’s charm, and paired with standout choreography the track really shines.
Though I like &TEAM’s music, I often struggle to differentiate between their voices. They’re a group filled with similar tones, but Deer Hunter twists this by layering evocative vocal effects during its chorus and letting the guys sing in their lower register. The call and response hook is a total earworm, following by slinky synth that adds great texture to the track. This synth riff reminds me of another (very famous?) song, but I can’t quite put my finger on it. Nevertheless, these solid ingredients come together to form a whole that’s even better than its parts.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
9
Bias
8
RATING
8.5