Seventeen BSS made their sub-unit debut all the way in which again in early 2018 with a enjoyable, goofy pop-rock observe. At that time, Seventeen had been nonetheless on the rise – coming off incredible singles Don’t Wanna Cry and Clap and about to make their Japanese debut with the also-incredible Name Name Name. 5 years later and the group has conquered the trade. By now, we’re all very accustomed to the Seventeen sound, making Combating (파이팅 해야지) extra of a victory lap than an evolution.
I’m all the time up for an excellent cheer music. Ok-pop may gain advantage from leaning additional on this course – much less “I’m the very best”-type comebacks and extra “you are able to do it!”-style anthems. And through an totally barren stretch of time for the trade, Combating arrives as a welcome jolt of vitality. It’s laborious to dislike a observe with its coronary heart in the correct place. However on the identical time, Combating is extra nice than revelatory. It’s carried out and produced nicely and borrows liberally from the funkier facet of Seventeen’s oeuvre. Its vitality is infectious. I simply want it hinged on melodies that felt equally as thrilling.
Yep, it’s me complaining about melody once more. Combating’s refrain is catchy however a little bit flat. Ditto for the verses, which chug alongside with out touchdown any sucker punches. They really feel conversational in nature, drawing upon Ok-pop’s dreaded sing-talk too typically. The trio’s pure charisma elevates the expertise, however there aren’t sufficient moments to sing alongside to. Lee Youngji’s rap verse is well-placed through the bridge, even when this slower sequence lasts too lengthy. As an entire, the observe has a slightness that borders on novelty. Fortunately, its upbeat and cheerful nature goes a good distance towards smoothing over these criticisms.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
Grade: B
