It’s been nearly three years since IU released an album, but comeback season is upon us once again in 2024. This kicks off with pre-release ballad Love Wins All. The song’s video has already received buzz thanks to the participation of BTS’s V. But taken on its own, Love Wins All is the kind of ornate, lilting sound you’d expect from IU.
My goodness, Korean charts will eat this up. A beautiful IU ballad released in the middle of the winter? Few things are as much of a slam dunk as this. As usual, IU sounds beautiful, delivering striking high notes with ease. There’s a surprising amount of range to this track despite its hushed energy. It feels like a song you’d hear as part of a stage musical — a lullaby beefed up with as much drama as the composers can muster.
Admittedly, I’m not much of a ballad person. I don’t see myself listening to this too often, but I imagine it will sound very nice in the context of an album. And unlike many Korean ballads, its vocal acrobatics keep me engaged throughout. Rather than continuous swells of strings, IU is the central force driving the music. That’s vital for long-awaited return like this. I’m excited to hear what she has up her sleeve for the album.
Hooks
8
Production
8
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
8