Even earlier than EXO make their long-awaited return subsequent month, the comeback has been affected by controversy. Your entire group isn’t taking part, with key members sidelined resulting from contractual points with SM Leisure. Due to this, it’s onerous to be completely enthusiastic about what’s in retailer, however the promotion machine continues to chug alongside regardless with pre-release I’m Residence arriving simply in time for winter.
EXO have change into synonymous with the winter season, delivering a variety of hits this time of 12 months. Most notably, their First Snow has change into a perennial favourite in Korea, presently lodged within the prime ten regardless of being launched over a decade in the past. I’m Residence goals for the same sound, providing tender melodies urged alongside by the occasional sleigh bell. It’s undoubtably festive, which limits its general attraction. Inside this particular sub-genre, the track works simply nice. I benefit from the melodies and its general environment has a really cozy vibe. I’m Residence additionally unfurls with loads of house, permitting for a layered climax that brings us to a satisfying endpoint.
But simply as I anticipated, the track feels incomplete with out all of the members’ voices. It’s unmistakably EXO, however virtually like a sub-unit model of the group. And when in comparison with previous hits on this vein (the transcendent Miracles In December, and even the slow-burn Sing For You) I’m Residence seems like a pleasant — however inessential — addition to their canon. We’ll see what they’re in a position to do with a full comeback subsequent month.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 7 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
Grade: C+