I wasn't bowled over by ALL(H)OURS' debut earlier this year, but I sensed musical ambition that might lead to exciting things in the future. With their second mini album, the guys are moving in the right direction. Title track Shock (도깨비) takes many familiar boy group tropes but adds a crackling instrumental that feels new and exciting.
There are hype tracks and there are 'crank the gas pedal and barrel straight through a brick wall' *hype* tracks. Shock belongs in this category, unveiling a larger-than-life energy that never lets up. From the first moment, it feels like we've been thrown into a cage match. The instrumental bats us around for three minutes, eschewing the usual pots-and-pans percussion for more resonant electro textures and a chugging post-chorus that unfolds with trance-like energy. At its peak, this production is thrilling and fresh, exploring electronic influences K-pop rarely touches.
With production this exciting, it would be wonderful to hear an equally engaging song attached to the bombast. Shock is more chant-shouting than I'd like, but if you know what you're in for it's still a lot of fun. Melody pokes through during the verses, and the chorus has enough heft to get your adrenaline pumping. The song may not be perfect, but I respect how bold it is. ALL(H)OURS certainly have my attention.
Hooks | 8 |
Production | 10 |
Longevity | 8 |
Bias | 9 |
RATING | 8.75 |
Grade: B+
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