Billlie pre-released the understated Trampoline final week, full with a low-budget music video that recommended they had been saving their assets for his or her album’s title observe. Remembrance Sweet (기억사탕) is that title, arriving inside the quirky worldbuilding we’ve come to count on from the group. It additionally scores a co-write from IU, who labored on the lyrics. However as a bit of music, the tune is comparatively restrained in comparison with their bold singles discography.

Remembrance Sweet has a jazzy groove seeped in sentiment. The nice and cozy instrumental matches the women’ comfortable harmonies with a energetic mattress of various percussion and the occasional burst of brass. Their vocals have by no means sounded higher, forgoing energy for a extra nuanced efficiency. This model jogs my memory a little bit of Lovelyz — one other lady group underrated for his or her vocal prowess. It makes me curious how Billlie would sound with this identical strategy on a tune that carries extra oomph.

Remembrance Sweet‘s intentions are in the best place and I recognize the place it’s going, however I want the tune itself stood out extra. It’s relentlessly tasteful, like one thing you would possibly hear within the background of a elaborate cocktail social gathering. Its effusive refrain jogs my memory of the vacation season, bringing a comfortable feeling on chilly winter days. However in contrast with Billlie’s most fun work, this feels extra like a footnote than a fundamental chapter.

Grade: C+