(G)I-DLE’s Minnie released her solo debut album last week, led by two promoted tracks that did little for me. However, the album grows stronger as it goes on, climaxing with its best song. That song has now been given its own video featuring WayV’s Ten, who duets with Minnie on Obsession. I can’t claim to be obsessed with the music yet, but I vastly prefer it over Blind Eyes Red and HER.
Some of this has to do with my own genre preferences. Obsession blends rock and chugging synthwave elements to craft an atmospheric sound that tends to burrow pleasantly into my ears. I also appreciate how Obsession is a full duet, finding equal space for Minnie and Ten to showcase their talents. The two make a striking unit, complimenting each other with a stylish charisma that elevates Obsession‘s more generic leanings.
Those generic leanings are what keep me from embracing Obsession with more enthusiasm. This style of synth-driven pop has become ubiquitous in the 2020’s to a point where it takes a killer melody or arrangement to really stand out. Obsession ticks all the necessary boxes but never leaps over them to deliver a vision of its own. I would have loved to hear a heartier rock influence, bolstering the song’s airy melodies with an instrumental you could really sink your teeth into. As it stands, Obsession is super solid but will likely fade into the background as dozens more pop songs of this nature make their way into the world.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
9
RATING
8.25