A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.
It’s been over a month since I last featured a “buried treasure” on the blog, and to be honest I’m stretching the definition with this song. However, IVE’s second album is one of February’s most notable releases and it’s got a few solid tracks as b-sides so I think it warrants discussion. They definitely chose the right title track, but Hush (숨바꼭질) would make a nice choice for further promotions.
Hush opens on a rather reserved note as the percussion gradually builds up. Its chorus continues this sense of build, teasing us with a whispered “hush hush” before Liz hits us with one of those spiralling high notes that seems to directly reference the group’s past hits. From here, the beat becomes more robust as the track adopts a groovy Y2K-esque sound. It’s the rare song that actually grows stronger as it goes. The instrumental becomes more dynamic and fast-paced, lending the simple melodic lines more weight. It could use a big climax so that the song ended on a high, but works as a continual tease that draws you in at every turn.
Hooks
8
Production
9
Longevity
8
Bias
8
RATING
8.25
Grade: B
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