Even when Bigbang were at their commercial peak, solo efforts by the members were just as important and oftentimes even more popular. In particular, G-Dragon and Taeyang ruled the zeitgeist with their respective hits, and even a decade (or more) later that nostalgia comes rushing back as soon as I hear their voices. Taeyang has a new album out today, led by the supercharged synthwave of Live Fast Die Slow.
Trend-wise, a new synthwave track feels four or five years too late to be cool, but I’ve loved the genre since way before Blinding Lights re-popularized it so I’m happy to hear K-pop dabble in the sound every once and awhile. This is especially true if a song is willing to lace its synth textures with a bounding dance beat. Much of Taeyang’s solo work tackles more restrained R&B or emotional balladry, so it’s nice to hear him on a high-BPM track again.
I’m not sure this is the best showcase for Taeyang’s distinct charms, but the song is a ton of fun. The chorus moves from a clipped rhythm to a shouted hook that brings some rock intensity to the song. This latter segment lasts a little long for me, but I guess Taeyang must throw a bone toward younger audiences who crave a chant-heavy execution. I’m more partial to the song’s melodic moments, but more than anything it’s Taeyang’s star power that fuels Live Fast Die Slow.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
8.5