Even before EXO make their long-awaited return next month, the comeback has been plagued by controversy. The entire group isn’t participating, with key members sidelined due to contractual issues with SM Entertainment. Because of this, it’s hard to be totally excited about what’s in store, but the promotion machine continues to chug along regardless with pre-release I’m Home arriving just in time for winter.
EXO have become synonymous with the winter season, delivering a number of hits this time of year. Most notably, their First Snow has become a perennial favorite in Korea, currently lodged in the top ten despite being released over a decade ago. I’m Home aims for a similar sound, offering soft melodies urged along by the occasional sleigh bell. It’s undoubtably festive, which limits its overall appeal. Within this specific sub-genre, the song works just fine. I enjoy the melodies and its overall atmosphere has a very cozy vibe. I’m Home also unfurls with plenty of space, allowing for a layered climax that brings us to a satisfying endpoint.
Yet just as I expected, the song feels incomplete without all the members’ voices. It’s unmistakably EXO, but almost like a sub-unit version of the group. And when compared to past hits in this vein (the transcendent Miracles In December, and even the slow-burn Sing For You) I’m Home feels like a nice — but inessential — addition to their canon. We’ll see what they’re able to do with a full comeback next month.
Hooks
8
Production
7
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
7.75