One thing about JYP groups is that they’re always going to be very prolific. KickFlip debuted just over a year ago and are already on their fourth mini album. That frequency and consistency has quickly built a catalog of music that feels unique to them. I’m loving their youthful pop/rock sound and am happy that the agency seems to support this musical direction. Last month’s Twenty proved to be a big grower and title track Eye-Poppin’ (눈에 거슬리고 싶어) feels primed to follow in those footsteps.
KickFlip songs have become known for fantastic choruses. Even if the connective tissue between these hooks sometimes falters, you can always count on another big refrain waiting just around the corner. Such is the case with Eye-Poppin’. There are moments in the verses that feel too throwaway for my liking, but the chorus is airtight. It’s rambunctious and properly energetic, centered around a memorable melodic focal point that pulls the whole song together.
Because of this, Eye-Poppin’ takes a moment to get going. Its opening verse takes no interesting turns, making it feel extraneous rather than thrilling. The producers were wise to shorten the second verse and sandwich it between highlights, because once we’re about a minute into the song it’s so much fun that you forget about its rocky start. I predict I’ll be playing this a lot over the next few weeks.
Hooks
9
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
8.75