[This review reflects the opinions of the author and not necessarily those of allkpop.]
Track List:
1. Peaches
2. Vanilla
3. Domino
4. Come In
5. To Be Honest
6. Blue
With major traditional Korean instruments sampled in his title, KAI returns with his album, Peaches. Of course, his title, also named, "Peaches" is an alluring R&B sound. Though KAI doesn't boast intensely risky vocals, the song is easy on the ears and feels sensual and captivating- aspects of KAI's music that contribute to his signature sexy sound. And of course, who can have "Peaches" without something sweet like "Vanilla"?
"Vanilla" enchants the listener with a sound that's surprisingly rhythmic. Relaxed and sensual, "Vanilla" is an intimate and downtempo song that's resonating bass makes it impactful. However, we're suddenly met with some serious whiplash when KAI switches the sound with bass-booming, "Domino." A song that's made for performances, "Domino" is a high-energyclub banger that still manages to have KAI's trademark aesthetic and feel.
That high-energy is quickly toned down with mid-tempo "Come In." Focusing more on his pop sound with this track, "Come In" has an addicting chorus that feels simple enough to stick. That being said, "Come In" doesn't quite capture my attention the way the other tracks insofar have. "To Be Honest" fixes this problem with its unique hip hop and synth beat. The song is dancey despite being downtempo. With pop vocal sensibility, "To Be Honest" is an earworm... to be honest.
"Blue" is the final song of the six on Peaches. A pure R&B song, KAI sounds his best on this track. Though other songs boasted more of a catchy appeal, "Blue" leaves the deepest impression. Satisfying as an ending number to this album, KAI displays his purest and most concentrated self. "Blue" feels like the sound the artist has been striving for come to fruition.
MV REVIEW
With a considerable amount of traditional Korean influence, KAI was able to create an extraordinarily unique concept for his MV for "Peaches." Of course, KAI has never missed when it comes to a compelling dance performance. This fine line between traditional Korean influence and modern R&B feel makes the MV a hit. Boasting a beautiful and somewhat dreamy set and landscape, the entire MV feels like a painting come to life.
MV SCORE:
MV Relevance…..8
MV Production…..9
MV Concept……..8
MV Score: 8.33
ALBUM SCORE:
Album Production…...9
Album Concept……...9
Tracklisting…………...9
Album Score: 9.0
Overall: 8.67
Personally, I didn't like this comeback, musically speaking. If I had to choose one track, it would be "Blue" but even then it's not something I would listen to over and over. But I'm not really bothered by that because you can't always like everything anyway. At least they tried something different this time. In the end it's a matter of taste and this one just didn't hit mine, that's all there is to it. His last album was more my taste, my favorite was "Amnesia", I still wish they would have made that one the title track because the visuals of the short clip we got to see in "Film: KAI" were so dark and mysterious, just gorgeous overall (they also reminded me of The Evil Within 2, which I love, so that's a bonus), especially in combination with his voice and the melody.
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