NCT Want have pinballed promotions between Japan and Korea, releasing earlier single Songbird first in Japanese earlier than unveiling its Korean model. Their new album appears to be taking the alternative method, beginning with pre-release Dunk Shot. No, this isn’t a canopy of the 90’s observe that NCT Dream already recorded. That is one other Dunk Shot… that additionally occurs to share 90’s undertones.

It’s been awhile since we’ve heard an NCT group shade their music with such vivid brushstrokes. Dunk Shot borrows many components from the NCT arsenal, however tethers its abrasive chants to massive percussion and rugged electro touches. There’s a bit of recent jack swing affect within the rhythm, up to date to suit a extra basic Ok-pop sound. Higher but, the tune injects loads of vocal melody into its body. Few hooks hit as onerous as those in Songbird, however the bounding refrain makes for an ear-catching centerpiece. I additionally just like the sneaky post-chorus that takes us to the finale.

Tune construction apart, I like listening to SM Leisure’s basic vocal combine throughout Dunk Shot‘s refrain. Its verses are a combined bag, however as soon as the members’ voices forge collectively we’re handled to a mighty mix that feels immediately nostalgic. Flashes of drama like this set Dunk Shot other than vivid pop tracks from different artists and can possible give it extra endurance. There’s a weight behind the manufacturing that buoys its sillier moments and retains Dunk Shot from feeling like a novelty observe.

Grade: B+