Review Summary: “Electric Shock” is an improvement over “Pinnochio”, and an incredibly fun EP.
Electric Shock is an excellent follow up to f(x)’s debut album,
Pinnochio, and undoubtedly holds better music. This K-pop girl group has refined their sound despite the loads of variety in this EP, borrowing the spunky spirit of
Pinnochio and improving upon it. As in f(x)’s debut, the idea of being in a video game presents itself many times, usually through quirky synths. I couldn’t help remembering Sonic the Hedgehog when I listened to ‘*트별 (Jet)’, or even the Overclocked remix of Commander Keen 4’s music for the level of Well of Wishes when I heard ‘지그재그 (Zig Zag)’. As someone who is fond of his childhood games, hearing little tributes in songs to them are nifty.
While f(x) have certainly kept their cheesy side, they have also become more serious about their music. The EP has some shocking moments, such as the epic hip-hop song ‘Beautiful Stranger’ which strongly emphasizes Amber's rapping; Amber has often had small rapping parts in the past, so this is a step up. Let’s not forget ‘훌쩍 (Let’s Try)’ either, a song that takes us to the tropics, and is clearly influenced by reggae. Songs like these prove that f(x) are not just another faceless K-pop group, but a memorable one that can produce some surprisingly solid songs. Their singles are still blatantly catchy, of course, (see ‘Electric Shock’) but this EP proves that f(x) can write catchy songs without being overbearingly cutesy or generic.
Electric Shock is a notably cheery EP with a sunny, upbeat presence. Any given song on this EP is much more exciting than anything on
Pinnochio, and the uplifting melodies just feel natural. If you’re already a K-pop fan, this EP is a mandatory listen, and best believe it makes great summer music. But even if you’re new to K-pop,
Electric Shock is a fantastic introduction, with a unique style and enough relevant song writing to recommend it to anyone.
