As K-pop's global popularity has increased, so has the use of samples from pop music history. A decade ago, the idea of sampling a Western pop song felt pretty rare, but there have been a number of recent hits built upon hooks from decades past. aespa's pre-release Supernova samples Afrika Bambaataa's 1982 classic Planet Rock, a milestone blend of hip-hop and dance elements. That genre mix often forms the foundation of modern K-pop, so Supernova's inspiration feels apt.
Some of my all-time favorite pop songs are built on samples, but the track must stand on its own merits. Supernova feels more indebted to SM Entertainment's sonic legacy than a simple cut-and-paste instrumental flourish. Much of the track unfolds like 2021's Next Level on steroids, pulsing along scuzzy electro synth as aespa throw down boast after boast. This sing-talk threatens to underwhelm, but it's smartly forged into hooks as catchy as the song's melodic highlights.
Supernova really gets going when we hit its chorus. This refrain is simple and repetitive, but the production gives it such momentum. It feels like we're speeding along a neon-hued metropolis. A climactic dance breakdown brings the song's Planet Rock sample full force before we segue into Supernova's only real vocal showcase. These ad-libs could have gone even bigger and bolder, but I'm still very charmed by the track's sense of grandeur and unflagging energy.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 9 |
Grade: A-
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