I really feel like I ought to open this assessment the very same means I did the one for ZEROBASEONE’s new Japanese single moments in the past. Like ZB1, &TEAM have labored their means into my core 5 new-gen boy teams, slightly below the trinity of TWS, RIIZE and BOYNEXTDOOR. Their music has turn out to be more and more robust, harnessing a melodic rock sound that basically suits the group. The large distinction, in fact, is that &TEAM is focused predominantly towards the Japanese market and hasn’t but made an official Korean debut (although they’ve recorded Korean variations of their J-pop hits).

Deer Hunter is the third new observe to be promoted from their second album, following the seasonal Illumination and the superb Yukiakari. On first hear, I discovered Deer Hunter completely high-quality however not significantly noteworthy. These groovy dance tracks are a dime a dozen in J-pop/Ok-pop, and its minimalist sound isn’t at all times to my liking. Nonetheless, repeat listens have introduced out the tune’s attraction, and paired with standout choreography the observe actually shines.

Although I like &TEAM’s music, I usually battle to distinguish between their voices. They’re a bunch full of related tones, however Deer Hunter twists this by layering evocative vocal results throughout its refrain and letting the blokes sing of their decrease register. The decision and response hook is a complete earworm, following by slinky synth that provides nice texture to the observe. This synth riff jogs my memory of one other (very well-known?) tune, however I can’t fairly put my finger on it. Nonetheless, these strong components come collectively to type a complete that’s even higher than its components.

Grade: B