XLOV debuted earlier this yr with an idea that boldly challenges gender norms. That is an thrilling improvement for Ok-pop and has potential to spawn equally thrilling music. Thus far, the presentation has been extra fascinating than the songs, and that continues with the nice however slight 1&Solely.
Afrobeats has develop into an enormous style touchstone for this technology of Ok-pop and has now develop into so ubiquitous that it takes an interesting track to face out. The fashion provides nice potential for efficiency, which is probably going why XLOV have boarded the Afrobeats practice. The blokes sound improbable on 1&Solely, delivering lush vocal turns that circle across the groove with loads of character and confidence. It’s been awhile since I’ve heard a Ok-pop group sing this fashion. Their voices virtually develop into one other a part of the instrumental, tied so strongly to the rhythm.
As a result of the group’s efficiency is such a spotlight of 1&Solely, it doesn’t depart a lot room for dynamic shifts in melody. Slightly than hit you over the pinnacle with spectacular refrains, the observe takes a extra laidback, sinuous strategy. This jogs my memory of Kiss Of Life’s Sticky final yr, which went on to take pleasure in nice longevity. I’m undecided that 1&Solely packs the identical punch, but it surely may work as a extra subdued addition to your 2025 summer season playlist.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
Grade: B-
