For the previous a number of Kingdom comebacks, I’ve discovered myself extra enamored with the group’s b-sides than their title tracks. Their high-concept collection appears to place emphasis on efficiency items fairly than songs that stand properly on their very own. This stays true for brand spanking new single Lengthy Stay The King (백야), however there are sufficient musical goodies thrown into its association to make this a simple standout of their discography.
Generally, songs might be too fussy for their very own good. Relatively than lean into their apparent strengths, they shift and drop and attempt to do an excessive amount of without delay. Lengthy Stay The King is responsible of this and would drastically enhance with some beneficiant tightening. However, ambition is a part of Kingdom’s schtick. I can’t fault them for attempting to do as a lot as they’ll in 4 minutes’ time. I simply want the music would linger on a few of its strongest moments. The funky beat that emerges throughout verse one is so good. We may’ve had a complete music constructed round it. However, it disappears in seconds – changed by lumbering percussion that feels way more generic.
Fortunately, Lengthy Stay The King is anchored by a memorable refrain. The association varies right here as properly, and the monitor is at its greatest when it goes full bore. I really like the pummeling percussion that underlines a lot of this centerpiece. It feels as if the group is throwing every little thing they’ve at us. The power is galvanizing. However, this drama makes King’s missteps much more apparent. Like so many different Ok-pop tracks, its second verse is inert and jarring. Thank goodness it’s temporary. And, the music hits the place it counts, delivering an exciting climax that sends us out on a excessive.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.5 |
