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Posted by AllK_Maknae21 pts Tuesday, January 31, 2017

[Single and MV Review] Gallant x Tablo x Eric Nam - 'Cave Me In'

Tablo, Eric Nam



Prepare for an emotional journey as Epik High's Tablo, Eric Nam, and Gallant ignite your feelings with "Cave Me In."




SEE ALSO: Final Winners of the 2024 MAMA Awards: SEVENTEEN, aespa, G-Dragon, and More

 


I didn't know what to expect upon first listen - but I was not disappointed! "Cave Me In" has a smooth, synthetic sound that utilizes a repetitive drum beat, echoing tin-like sound, electric guitar and some additional sound effects here and there. The song has the perfect chill vibe that is just irresistible to the ears. It is smooth as honey and melts your heart like butter - the perfect combo! Get a taste of what I'm talking about in the video down below.


Gallant's vocals are beautiful and intense all at once! He has an effortless way of singing and it pairs well alongside these Korean singers without stealing the spotlight. 


I will say, probably due to Gallant himself as well as Tablo and Eric Nam's experiences in the West, the song has a great Western appeal and brings together each singer's style nicely. I can definitely catch this song on the radio over here and not think twice about whether or not it was made in Korea.


Tablo's rap slayed. It was well-executed, well-thought out and very thought-provoking. He's always had awesome lyrics whether it be for Epik High or his solo releases and he didn't push back as he questions the love game with lyrics like, "Love's either got you over heels or overdosed. It's got you off your feet or on your toes. It's got you out your seat or in your place. It's got you digging it or your grave." Deeper than the ocean is blue man. Kudos.




Eric Nam really ends the song beautifully as he has more of a developed singing voice. He gives these lyrics a real angelic, R&B vibe that I can't resist bobbing my head to. Although Tablo's rap is moving, I just can't get over the vocals of Gallant and Eric Nam. 


Perhaps because Tablo is doing something more familiar to fans whereas Eric and Gallant are a bit more refreshing to see. Either way, I give props to each artist.




"Cave Me In" is such an epic collab that I can't really find too many faults. There were some parts that were a bit 'meh' in my opinion as well as in the MV. The intro is kind of 'meh' due to the way Tablo is calmly saying "You got me feeling like," alongside Eric Nam's auto-tuned cooing in the background. A bit too cliche for me. But then, the song turns into something wonderful starting with the first bridge and the rest of it is just magic!


As for the MV, I dig the simplicity of it all. It isn't bombarded with an expensive theme, concept or anything of the like. Just like how their love and hearts are wandering through this world, the artists bring imagery to the words as they get lost and wander the streets of Hong Kong. It was refreshing to see a new change in scenery as Hong Kong has one of the best skylines and atmospheres in the world. The MV was filmed when they were all together for the 'MAMA' performance (which was held in Hong Kong). Despite the simple recording style, it didn't feel amateur at all.




Altogether, this song really hit the nail on the head with capturing a Western sound - whether they were trying to or not! It is smooth, chill and a unique collaboration that is absolutely worth the listen! I hope to hear more beautiful songs like this in the near future!



Score


MV Relevance.........7
MV Production........7
MV Concept.............7


Song Production...9
Song Concept........8
Song Quality..............10


OVERALL.............8

  1. Tablo
  2. Eric Nam
  3. GALLANT
  4. CAVE ME IN
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