Kim Jonghyeon’s newest comeback snuck up on me, but he’s always a welcome presence in K-pop. Nu’est’s solo tracks did a good job tailoring each member’s personality to the music. I had a pretty clear idea of who they wanted to be as performers, and that sense has extended to most of their post-group work.
Kim Jonghyeon’s career seems divided equally between acting/variety and music, making him a jack of all trades. Often, this approach results in generic songs that feel more like placeholders than dynamic statements of intent. Whatever you may think of new single Motto, it’s definitely not generic. Its sprightly tempo has a sped-up appeal, delivering a high BPM within the same loungey soundscape preferred by acts like NewJeans and (occasionally) ZEROBASEONE. It’s an interesting take on the genre and ensures Motto is never boring. Even when the song lulls into slower, dreamier territory, the performance retains an intensity that keeps momentum strong.
As interesting as Motto is, I’m not sure it’s a song I’d flock to over and over again. Its pulsing, pounding arrangement is a double-edged sword. I’m fascinated by it, but its frantic nature also pushes me away. Fortunately, Jonghyeon makes for an engaging centerpiece, adding plenty of personality to the mix. That’s enough to make Motto a soft recommend, even if its mile-a-minute repetition begins to wear a bit thin after a few listens.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
7
Bias
8
RATING
7.75