Although I had waited years for KickFlip’s debut, the ensuing music left me principally chilly. It’s clear that JYP Leisure needs to present them a youthful, rebellious idea, however the songs felt like they might have been delivered by another boy group of this era 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 monitor is ready to anchor its extra tiresome parts with a triumphant refrain. Truthfully, each a part of the tune 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 completely. However when the blokes lock in to the monitor’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 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 a bunch of musical nonsense with the data that there’s an amazing rush of adrenaline ready round each nook. Many songs this 12 months are extra nonsense than “nice rush,” so I assume I ought to be pleased about child steps in the fitting path. If KickFlip can construct upon the strongest moments of Freeze for future comebacks, their third time would possibly simply be the appeal.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Grade: B