I’ve made quite a swerve with ALLDAY PROJECT’s Famous since its release back in June. The first impression was not favorable, and as the song started to gain purchase on the charts I couldn’t help but wonder why. However, repeated listens (and eventual ubiquity) helped Famous worm its way into my brain until I became quite addicted. Say what you will about producer Teddy, but crafting songs that do this is one of his greatest gifts.
New single One More Time is a different beast entirely. While Famous‘s circuitous structure took time to reveal its charm, One More Time is designed for maximum impact upon landing. It’s been awhile since I’ve heard a song like this in K-pop — something that feels glossy and widescreen while still retaining the era’s overarching trends. One More Time melds the anthemic EDM energy of a 2009 Black Eyed Peas song to a skittering drum and bass rhythm that’s pushed to be bigger and bolder than the genre is usually known for. The track operates well in both of these realms, only suffering when the tempo slows (second verse rap, why must you still do this to us??).
Refreshingly, One More Time gives itself over three minutes to play with, allowing for an extended build during verse one and a rousing finale that feels like a natural extension of the song rather than the tacked on breakdown Teddy productions have become known for. If one thing’s keeping the song from bumping up to a “9” rating, it’s the feeling that the music is still holding back when it should absolutely explode. There’s no reason for its buzzkill second verse and One More Time takes too long to right itself after that sonic misstep.
Hooks
9
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
8.75