ATEEZ’s profession has been divided neatly into sequence: Treasure, Fever, The World, and now Golden Hour. I’m certain hardcore followers will have the ability to establish sounds and storylines that make every sequence distinctive, however to the informal listener the group has retained a lot of its musical hallmarks throughout all these eras, favoring sonic bombast and hip-hop swag. New single Ice On My Tooth tilts towards the latter, additional exploring the sounds present in this spring’s Work.

To be trustworthy, the title “Ice On My Tooth” had me side-eyeing this tune earlier than it was even launched. I’ve been fairly vocal about how drained I’ve turn out to be of braggadocious, look-at-me, I’m so cool/wealthy/dangerous/no matter songs in Ok-pop. There’s nothing new left within the tank with regards to this subject material and it’s turn out to be a crutch for the trade. Nevertheless, ATEEZ subvert expectations right here by going fairly subdued and bolstering the in any other case unremarkable lure beat with ornate strings embellishment. In some ways, it is a dramatic departure from the group’s singles run and that adventurousness is appreciated.

Songs of this fashion don’t at all times attraction to me and I’m unconvinced by Ice On My Tooth‘s foolish centerpiece (we critically must dial again on English lyrics in the event that they’re going to be this dangerous), however the observe delivers a temper that’s extra refined and interesting than their previous few efforts. By dialing down their typical depth, the listener is introduced nearer to the music. Past its symphonic parts, there’s not a lot about Ice that may hold me coming again for extra, and I crave a stronger set of melodies and extra colourful number of rap verses. I can’t assist however think about what a pioneer like G-Dragon may have completed on this observe. Preserving with the spirit of the manufacturing, ATEEZ’s efficiency feels overly muted —  however boy is that instrumental a magnificence.

Grade: C+