It’s been a protracted seventeen month anticipate us Sweetune aficionados. The manufacturing duo helmed NINE.i’s glorious Flip It Off in August 2023 and swiftly disappeared, briefly reappearing for forgettable H1-Key and DKZ b-sides final 12 months. Now, they’re again in title observe territory with BBGirls’ new single (and first underneath their new company) Love 2. So, was the excruciating wait value it?

There are a number of distinct forms of Sweetune title tracks: the Chaser-esque banger, the retro synthpop anthem, the orchestral masterpiece. There’s additionally the model present in Love 2 — a moody, midtempo sound that shares extra in widespread with Okay-pop’s present period of subdued lady group fare. That is my least favourite musical guise for Sweetune, although typically the mellow vitality may be buoyed by their indelible reward for melody.

Inside this framework, Love 2 will not be a standout. BBGirls’ robust vocal line needs to be a match made in heaven with Sweetune’s strong synth tones and hovering hooks. As an alternative, it seems like everybody concerned determined to deliver their “b” sport. Thoughts you, a “b” Sweetune observe remains to be superior to many producers at their finest, however after such a protracted wait it’s laborious to not be underwhelmed. Love 2 has an important vibe and there are moments when it feels as if its hooks are about to develop into one thing memorable and thrilling, however the tune lacks dynamic construction and concludes earlier than it’s in a position to harness its full efficiency.

Grade: B-