Review Summary: K, we’re poppin’ now
I convinced myself that I’m picky with pop music, but it’s all a lie. I just happen to have some narcissistic tendencies so when I discover something not as cool as I am I shudder at the thought. However, pop music is very fulfilling stuff. Even the lamest, most timid and so-called “mid” pop music is enjoyable. Not every album is a banger, but every pop artist interprets the genre in their own way. Truthfully, I’m tired of being so negative about music. I thought other people were worse about it, but really, I’ve been critiquing music for most of my entire life. I’m a cynical ***ing bastard, but I’m working on it.
Along comes Illit with a large splash on the K-pop scene, winning awards and stuff. The dance moves for their song Magnetic are fittingly hypnotic, and I find myself fascinated with another new K-pop group. These sexually abusive star-maker companies want us to become addicted to their music, and I love the music. Does that make me a monster or just an enjoyer of music? Either way, the music is indeed great. There’s certainly an argument about how this EP has a kind of quick dessert vibe. You munch it real quick and it’s done before you know it. You want seconds but there are none. This very light snack is great, but one more banger would’ve fit well.
It’s incredible how easily these singers compliment each others’ voices. The production is perfect, but their voices have that moist cake atmosphere that I personally love. The EP is not too sugary sweet or corny, it’s the perfect level of pop bliss. Magnetic is the certified ear worm of the EP, but it’s not annoying. There was an era of K-pop when such a song would’ve been amplified to cheesy levels beyond stomaching, but nothing of the sort occurs here. The opening track “My World” perfectly sets the scene, with blissful melodies, and a pleasant beat.
This may feel like less of a review, simply because everyone is saying the same thing about this EP. They love it, and they love the group, but more can still be done. We’ll just see if these blissful, somewhat background tunes are churned out, or more whiz bangs like Magnetic. They certainly have a grounded sound already, and it’s difficult to critique a release so pleasant.
