Previous to their comeback on the finish of the month, One Pact launched an EP of solo songs from every of the members. I gained’t be writing about most of them since I don’t have a lot to say, however Jong Woo’s solo Passout immediately caught my ear and now it has a particular video so as to add a visible aspect.
I’ve talked about earlier than that I’ve two targets for Ok-pop in 2025. First, I’d like an enormous spike in vitality — upbeat instrumentals and an finish to this muted part we discover ourselves in. Second, (and much more vital) is a return to strong melodies. Up to now, it appears that evidently these two qualities can’t coexist. Once we get the melodies, they’re typically fused to a smooth, melancholic sound. Once we get the blazing dance beats, idols merely speak over them fairly than sing. Passout falls into this latter class, however the rap is catchy sufficient to stay.
The tune’s thumping beat is strictly what I’d love to listen to extra of. It’s enjoyable and thrilling and will simply help some splendidly theatrical second-gen melodies. As a substitute, Passout acts as a rap highlight as Jong Woo and Tag commerce blows. Its briskness makes for a enjoyable sequence of flows and the refrain is addictive if slight. At simply over two minutes, the tune feels extra like a diversion than a full-fledged second, however I’d love if One Pact borrowed a few of this depth for his or her group comeback.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Manufacturing | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
Grade: B-