I’ve been cold and warm on xikers’ music up to now, often discovering not less than one b-side I take pleasure in however typically wishing their title tracks went a unique route. Making issues worse, I discovered the preview of recent single Witch (위치) the least compelling clip on their album’s spotlight medley, forgoing their freewheeling rock power for one thing darker and extra hulking.

We’re approaching spooky season, and Witch will probably be proper at dwelling through the month of October. The music opens with a horror present instrumental, setting the tone for the group’s most theatrical monitor but. The remainder of Witch feels rather more historically Ok-pop than their earlier work, all the way down to the music video’s second-gen “field” set. Xikers are clearly able to pulling off this conceptual swap, however a stronger music would have made the transformation extra participating.

As a gaggle who lean closely into hip-hop, Witch finds a brand new technique to showcase that talent. It’s primarily rapped, however with lumbering phrasing that offers it an aggressive power. Coupled with thick synth prospers, the monitor feels each claustrophobic and commanding. The refrain is extra melodic, although xikers’ efficiency is usually perched someplace between shouting and singing. I don’t discover any of the music’s hooks notably nice, however they reach creating a particular vibe. I think about followers extra inclined towards this sound will discover loads to like. In the meantime, I’ll be scouring the album for music that hits the best way my favourite xikers tracks have.

Grade: C