After returning from the military, Baekhyun (mostly) parted ways with SM Entertainment and set up his own label INB100. He’s not the first SM artist to do so, and likely won’t be the last. With this newfound freedom, he’s made his long awaited comeback with the synth grooves of Pineapple Slice.
Looking at this song title, the first thing that popped into my mind was Tove Lo’s (filthy!) track of the same name. This may have inadvertently colored expectations, but Baekhyun’s take on the title is far more tame. The glistening production sees him trying on his best Weeknd impression, even borrowing some of that singer’s iconic vocal tics. His voice works well against the rubbery synth tones. The instrumental bends and pulses just as often as his own performance, crafting a track that feels constantly in motion.
If anything, I wish Pineapple Slice went harder. It’s quite subdued throughout, especially as we move into the pre-chorus. Baekhyun delivers plenty of vocal firepower in the song’s second half, bringing things to a natural climax. However, a song like this calls for constant flair. The beat could be faster, the synths could be sharper and the melodies could be more dynamic. In other words, all the right ingredients are here… they just need to be kicked up from an eight to a ten to give us the full superstar experience.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
8
RATING
8.25