Stuff That I Find Today : CHVRCHES, Girls' Generation, Hyuna, The Chainsmokers

CHVRCHES – “Leave A Trace”

                I’m a big fan of their previous record, The Bones Of What You Believe, but this is such a letdown. Their sound isn’t evolve and stay the same while this single sounds like they try to recreate “The Mother We Share”. One thing that I notice is the vocals is pushed to forward, make it hard to like because Lauren’s voice isn’t strong. The anticipation on the verse is good, but the chorus falls flat. Especially on “I know I need to feel released”, the voice effects is ruining that part. Hope their next single and the album tracks have varieties and more great melody.

3/5

GIRLS’ GENERATION – “Lion Heart”

                “Lion Heart” sounds like they try to chase retro pop / doo wop trend that Meghan Trainor repopularize. However, I actually enjoy this more than Meghan’s music. “Lion Heart” doesn’t try to be edgy and innovative, while Meghan try to cram “rap” and her political issues into her song. Because of that and Girls’ Generation delivery, this song feels so sweet. The chorus is great, but the “ooh ooh ooh” part seems out of place, especially in the bridge.

4/5

HYUNA FT ILHOON (FROM BTOB) – “Roll Deep”

                Hyuna’s teaser give me hope that the MV will be great, but the actual product is basic as hell. The shock factor is still there, but it’s less appealing than her previous MV. I’m also tired with these bhangra-influenced urban pop trend in K-Pop. Because of that, this Hyuna single sounds tired and feels already done before. The opening synth sounds like DJ Mustard trademark, while the chorus sounds like TInashe’s part in “Drop That Kitty”. Disappointing.

2.5/5

THE CHAINSMOKERS FT WATERBED – “Waterbed”

                I’m genuinely surprised that The Chainsmokers can produce something like this, especially after hearing their other singles. The lyrics is cringeworthy (“Make your ass shake like waterbed” ? ) , but the production and vocals are great. The climax in the end sounds great too, something I would expected from CHVRCHES, actually. This is the sonic equivalent of euphoric rainbow splash.

4.5 / 5