I feel like I’ve been writing about a lot of bands recently. Band music is certainly popular at this moment in Korea, with many active groups both junior and senior. FNC Entertainment has always been a hub for these acts, and AxMxP made their debut under the agency last year with a full album. Now, they’ve returned with their first comeback in the form of title track PASS.
While I’ve found the group’s music to be a mixed bag so far, I enjoyed their energy and the way they blended rap and rock. PASS leans further in that direction, but not in a way I’d hope. Rap plays a huge role here. Some of it is enjoyable but most of it has the slurred, effects-heavy sheen that’s so popular these days. And rather than buoy the track with a knockout chorus, PASS opts for a chant-heavy centerpiece that doesn’t do much for me. It’s definitely energetic, but simply often like the band is shouting at us without much purpose.
However, PASS‘s worst choice is the screeching synth alarm that takes over the pre-chorus and much of the track from that point on. This sound is so (purposefully?) unpleasant that it will likely keep me from replaying the song at all. I admire the group’s bullish desire to assault all senses, but once the shock and awe has passed there’s not much to bring you back for another listen.
Hooks
6
Production
7
Longevity
7
Bias
7
RATING
6.75
Grade: D+
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