AOMG’s hip-hop girl group Keyveatz made their pre-debut back in April, setting the stage for today’s full debut. I couldn’t tell you much about that earlier track beyond that fact that I didn’t enjoy it, and OXY‘s title brings to mind the slang term for the well-known opioid that’s caused a wave of addiction over the years. That’s probably not the idea Keyveatz want listeners to come away with here, but letters and words have meaning, intentional or not!
Sigh. Some songs are tricky from the start. OXY opens with a truly obnoxious synth loop that sounds like a deranged otter yelping. I don’t know why K-pop’s take on hip-hop almost always comes paired with the most annoying samples imaginable. You can craft a satisfying hip-hop beat without resorting to these nerve-killing, ear-piecing sounds, I swear!
OXY grows more interesting as it goes and I appreciate its attempt to blend hip-hop and club music. The song walks the line between both genres, ultimately failing to pull the best from each. However, there are moments where I can hear what OXY might have been if it streamlined its approach. Unfortunately, the production and execution is so prickly and shrill that it makes OXY a difficult listen. The track lacks moments of payoff that could counter this unsettled experience, making me feel like I’m struggling through something without the promise of satisfaction after that struggle is over.
Hooks
7
Production
7
Longevity
7
Bias
6
RATING
6.75