Although I had waited years for KickFlip’s debut, the ensuing music left me principally chilly. It’s clear that JYP Leisure desires to offer them a youthful, rebellious idea, however the songs felt like they might have been delivered by some other boy group of this technology and the hooks typically grated after I needed them to soar.
New single Freeze isn’t miles away from that debut materials, however by including a dose of rock bombast the observe is ready to anchor its extra tiresome parts with a triumphant refrain. Actually, each a part of the music that doesn’t function electrical guitar may use a rewrite. The verses are plonky and underwhelming and the tempo-shifting “freeze” breakdowns ought to have been jettisoned solely. However when the blokes lock in to the observe’s pop/rock refrain, Freeze turns into an brisk burst of summer season singalong bliss. I do know Okay-pop prides itself on mixing genres and upending expectations, however generally a simple banger is the way in which to go and KickFlip match this sound very nicely.
This distinction leaves me in an odd place with Freeze. I discover myself sitting by means of a bunch of musical nonsense with the data that there’s an amazing rush of adrenaline ready round each nook. Many songs this yr are extra nonsense than “nice rush,” so I suppose I ought to be grateful for child steps in the precise course. If KickFlip can construct upon the strongest moments of Freeze for future comebacks, their third time may simply be the appeal.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Grade: B
