Although I had waited years for KickFlip’s debut, the ensuing music left me largely chilly. It’s clear that JYP Leisure needs to offer them a youthful, rebellious idea, however the songs felt like they may have been delivered by some other boy group of this technology and the hooks usually 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 components with a triumphant refrain. Truthfully, each a part of the track that doesn’t characteristic 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 lively burst of summer season singalong bliss. I do know Ok-pop prides itself on mixing genres and upending expectations, however typically a simple banger is the way in which to go and KickFlip match this sound very effectively.
This distinction leaves me in an odd place with Freeze. I discover myself sitting by means of a bunch of musical nonsense with the information that there’s an incredible rush of adrenaline ready round each nook. Many songs this yr are extra nonsense than “nice rush,” so I suppose I ought to be pleased about child steps in the appropriate path. If KickFlip can construct upon the strongest moments of Freeze for future comebacks, their third time would possibly simply be the allure.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Grade: B
