NCT’s Jaehyun pre-released two tracks from his debut solo album earlier this month. I gave each common rankings however by no means returned to them once more. Relatively than “good” or “dangerous,” the songs didn’t have a lot impact on me in any respect. They merely existed — good, well-performed and really predictable. Title observe Smoke continues this sample, portray Jaehyun as an R&B crooner however failing to provide him with memorable materials.
To make sure, Jaehyun has a terrific voice for R&B. His vocal efficiency is credible and interesting, however a nice tone solely takes a music up to now. As its title suggests, Smoke evaporates from reminiscence in actual time, laying down a slick groove however struggling to do something attention-grabbing with it. The verses are clean and atmospheric, but too generic to stay. The music comes throughout as “R&B 101,” leaving little room for Jaehyun to showcase his distinctive charms.
Nonetheless, these verses are stronger than Smoke‘s spoken-word refrain. The songwriters punt right here, choosing a half-hearted catchphrase. This strategy ends in a vacuum at Smoke‘s core. I’m positive the intention is to seem attractive and aloof, and this in all probability works higher within the context of stay performances. On report, this refrain merely comes throughout as noncommittal and uninteresting. It actually doesn’t herald an thrilling solo profession, making me curious what Jaehyun is searching for to convey in his music.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Manufacturing | 7 |
| Longevity | 7 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7 |
Grade: C-
