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 some other boy group of this era and the hooks usually grated once 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 music 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 totally. However when the blokes lock in to the observe’s pop/rock refrain, Freeze turns into an lively burst of summer time singalong bliss. I do know Okay-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 nicely.
This distinction leaves me in an odd place with Freeze. I discover myself sitting by means of a bunch of musical nonsense with the data that there’s a fantastic rush of adrenaline ready round each nook. Many songs this 12 months are extra nonsense than “nice rush,” so I suppose I ought to be grateful for child steps in the appropriate route. If KickFlip can construct upon the strongest moments of Freeze for future comebacks, their third time may simply be the attraction.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Grade: B
