Kara are one just a few second-gen teams to make a long-awaited return these previous few years. If I’ve realized something from these comebacks, it’s that nostalgia can result in unrealistic expectations. The probabilities of a bunch returning to their musical peak (or launching a brand new peak period) are often fairly slim. For many followers, it’s sufficient that the idols merely exist and acknowledge their legacy.

I Do I Do follows 2022’s After I Transfer, an honest — however considerably generic — tune that in the end felt like a missed alternative. This time, the women have opted for a subdued summer season sound, delivering each Korean and Japanese variations of the only. This sound shares little connective tissue with their stellar run of Sweetune-produced singles, however its breezy nonchalance fits the season nicely. I’m undecided how a lot enter Kara themselves had within the tune choice, however I’m undecided the A&R crew at RBW perceive what made them such a beloved group within the first place.

To I Do I Do‘s credit score, the tune expands and improves because it goes on. What opens as a sleepy affair (assume late-era Apink or GFriend at their most beige) slowly beneficial properties steam till we attain a wealthy, guitar-laced finale that sends us out on a excessive. Kara’s efficiency is impeccable all through, elevating I Do I Do at each flip. Mixed with the goodwill earned all through seventeen years within the trade, this makes for polished, tasteful comeback.

Grade: B-