HYPE IS REAL
I will be reviewing this album through an unbiased ear. I have listened to this album 6 times.
Starting off from the title track "Rose"....
This is something I can see Ed Sheeran do. I love "Photograph" and this song gives me strong vibes of the former.
Nice, Chill laid back vibe. Since this album is supposed to be "Healing album", this fits perfectly.
I have to give props to producers because the HARMONIES are so pretty. I like the "AYAYAY" And the "OHOHOH" bits.
Some people were saying this was way too short, and I don't agree. If it went 1 minute more, it would have started dragging. Perfect timing.
I found the ending a bit abrupt. Strange feeling.
Decent track.
Rating :- 8/10
Beginning reminds me of Baekhyun's Love Again.
I was particularly excited for this because It's been years since we heard a duet from Kyungsoo.
I love the filtered snap like snare. Gives it a more minimal feel.
I have to say, Wonstein goes well with Kyungsoo's voice.
Nice tempo, Excellent vocals.
Very unique rapping from Wonstein.
I am impressed by this song.
Again, the ending is abrupt which throws me off.
Rating :- 8.25/10
3. My Love
The guitar is very calm and mysterious at the same time.
I love the "Seodulleo" repetition at the start.
Slow and chill.
What A GORGEOUS MELODY. CHORUS IS REALLY CALMING TO LISTEN TO.
I don't know if I like the post chorus synth or vocal sample.
"Na Na Na" part is spectacular.
Nothing much to say....
Rating :- 8.75/10
4. It's Love
That guitar is so pretty. When I tell you, I got major goosebumps with this one especially the shift at 0:45...
The finger snaps, his velvety voice......
The runs are one of a kind. I was listening to it and I almost got tears in my eyes.
Rating :- 9/10
5. Dad
This song is very different, there is a hint of sadness, I don't know where this song was going for the first 20 seconds....
But then he takes it to next level from 0:26.....
There is a unknown instrument layered with the snare, I don't know what that is, but it is a nice addition.
I think people may cry to this because it is very moving.
Rating :- 8.5/10
6. I'm Fine
Beginning seals the deal. The melody is catchy and addictive as hell.
There is a high voice in the back)(possibly a female) when he starts singing "How are You"....
Good voice.
Fun fact :-
There is a song called "Guzarish"
Rating :- 9.25/10
7. Rose (English Version)
Decent Pronounciation from someone who doesn't speak English fluently.
Lyrics are cute.
Rating :- 8.25/10 (+0.25 for pronounciation)
8. Si Fueras Mía (Spanish Version of "It's Love")
I already knew how his pronounciation would be. Still, I am surprised how good it is. Good job, Kyungsoo.
Spanish version is better than the Korean Version. There's something about his delivery that is very satisfying to listen to.
I love how he rolls his "rrr" in Spanish, Koreans as far as I know have trouble with "R" and often sing "L".... So that's nice.
Rating :- 9.5/10 (+0.5 for his Spanish)
Conclusion :- I think that this is the best solo debut of 2021....
There are so many plus points....
I can't find a fault in Vocals, Production, Delivery, Phrasing. Some tracks may feel very slow and it's totally valid if you don't like it.
Kyungsoo is getting better in Vocals, he already was one of the best vocalist in KPOP since debut and passing years have only made him better. The runs, the adlibs, the falsetto.....
Aside from abrupt ending, there is nothing wrong with this album.
I felt the feeling of Love when I was listening to Si Fueras Mía. That's so hard to convey and he did it effortlessly.
After listening to this album, I wonder how can people say EXO doesn't convey emotions when they sing? Because I was almost on the verge of crying and that takes a lot for someone to do that to me.
Thank you, Kyungsoo. You made me happy today.
Final Rating :- 86.875%
What do you think? What are your favorite tracks? Any song you dislike?
