I considered ready to write down a assessment for One Pact’s FXX OFF (꺼져) till the music video was launched, however the state of affairs surrounding it’s simply too ironic to not discover. The group’s comeback is at the moment and — like many Okay-pop acts — they’ve gone for a daring, badass sound with a faux-controversial title within the self-censored “FXX OFF.” But on the first signal of any precise controversy, their company has pulled the video for re-edit. Isn’t this simply the proper microcosm of the Okay-pop trade?

I’m not saying a re-edit wasn’t needed. Cultural appropriation is a really actual downside and one which’s plagued Okay-pop for a while. I simply discover the disconnect between ideas’ bark and chew to be fairly humorous. With that mentioned, we’re right here to speak in regards to the precise music, and regardless of FXX OFF‘s prickly title, I’m desirous to dive in and see what makes the track tick.

FXX OFF has some good moments — primarily when the blokes are merely singing and never making an attempt to twist themselves into unhealthy boy architypes. The pre-choruses have a satisfying construct, showcasing their apparent expertise. Nevertheless, these segments body a really terrible refrain. The manufacturing gurgles and groans as we enter a sonic hellscape of abrasive sing-talk and underwhelming hooks. A theatrical, shouted bridge works significantly better, actually harnessing a way of violent anger. I’m far more on this punky method, however as FXX OFF‘s state of affairs has reminded us, that is finally idol pop we’re speaking about.

Grade: D+

(Will replace with the music video when it’s launched)