XG are an interesting prospect. Managed by legendary J-pop company Avex, they're finding much more success outside their home country than within. This seems to be by design, as they perform in English and target many K-pop venues and audiences. I haven't seen them appear on any of Japan's numerous music shows, but they'll be coming to this years' KCON.
GRL GVNG is a pre-release for the group's upcoming mini album and comes paired with a music video that features a shortened version of the song. Like much of their work so far, the track sees the girls boasting over a trap beat. They pull off this sound well and there's a nice flow to the song's construction. The rumbling synths supporting the beat feel reminiscent of aespa. At times, GRL GVNG almost feels like a more skeletal peer to Next Level.
Though the song's chorus is a little silly, it's hard to come away from GRL GVNG without that hook looping in your head. I appreciate the restraint of the arrangement, and the vocals that precede the chorus are smooth and dynamic. As far as pre-releases go, GRL GVNG sets the stage for a confident banger.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 7 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
Grade: C+
