HYBE has made an aggressive push into the Japanese market over the past few years, both debuting their own J-pop groups and deploying their Korean acts with original material. The latest to join this push is LE SSERAFIM, who previously released Japanese-language versions of their Korean hits. Different marks their first original J-pop track and offers a shot of summertime energy.
More than almost anything they’ve released since 2023, Different reminds me of LE SSERAFIM’s debut era. Many of those songs had a loose, funky energy that fit the group well. I like their vocals against this light dance backdrop. There’s an airiness that’s quite fashionable, but the energetic instrumental keeps it from becoming dull. The production’s blend of rhythm guitar, brassy synth and insistent, bounding percussion makes for an exciting brew. I only wish the song pushed these elements further. HYBE is one of the biggest forces in music at the moment. They have no reason to play things safe.
This extends to Different‘s truncated running time. In another reality, we’d enjoy at least a minute more spread throughout the track, giving Different the chance to actually spread its wings. As it stands, this feels more like a teaser than a song. I wish modern producers understood the value of a bridge and final chorus. There’s absolutely no justification for Different to be this short beyond the choice to maximize its streaming potential. I know the music industry is a business, but this is so obviously a decision that puts money over fans. It’s honestly insulting at this point and prevents me from boosting this otherwise fine song to a higher rating.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
8.25