4Minute – ‘Crazy’ Album Review

Amidst the fierce battle of sexiness among female groups in the Kpop industry, 4Minute has carved out a haven for themselves that’s not solely reliant on seduction, but confidence and skills. Known for their dynamic styles and versatile image, the girls of 4Minute rarely disappoint when it comes to their music. Their sixth mini-album, Crazy, is no exception. 4minute brought more swagger than ever in this phenomenal album made up of genre-crossing gems. Get ready to embark on a crazy fun journey with the badass girls of 4Minute.

Track 1 – 미쳐 (Crazy)

Title track Crazy opens the album with intense beats, energetic chants, and powerful vocals to set the tone. Though this extremely addictive uptempo track has an underlying trap rhythm, it actually transitions tempo and mood a few times between edgy rapped verses, smoothly sung pre-chorus, and the hooky chanted chorus. Crazy masterfully stitches these distinctive segments together to form a charismatic and unforgettable song.

Track 2 – 1절만 하시죠 (Cut It Out)

Cut It Out is another singular concoction of dirty hip hop meets peppy pop ballad. The syncopated, aggressive rap verses are backed by a combination of trap beats and strong synths sounds. Yet the chorus unexpectedly switches to a cheerful, catchy melody. The jarring contrast in tone adds dimension to Cut It Out, as if two completely different girls are having a conversation about not letting the prejudice of others affect their determination in following their own paths.

Track 3 –  간지럽혀 (Tickle Tickle Tickle)

Tickle Tickle Tickle is surprisingly unique to say the least. At first, this track can come off as quite repetitive and monotonous. But with a few more listens, I really start to appreciate its rhythmic low bass funk pop flavor, much like the ultra-popular Sexy Back by Justin Timberlake from years ago. I particularly want to applaud 4Minute for attempting such a rare music genre within the Kpop industry.

Track 4 –  눈에 띄네 (Stand Out)

Continuing with the funky spirit, next up is a mid-tempo disco influenced number. Stand Out features jumpy piano riffs, groovy bass lines, bouncy percussion beats, and of course 4Minute’s spunky vocals. Though the song has a cool nonchalant attitude to it, the chorus is a bit repetitive for long-term enjoyment.

Track 5 – Show Me

Here we have an upbeat EDM dance pop track with lots of distorted synths during the verses and a bit of rock elements mixed in during the chorus. In particular, Ji Yoon’s deeper, powerful voice really stands out and is the highlight of the song. In simplest terms, Show Me is the perfect energizer when you need a wake up call.

Track 6 –  추운 비 (Cold Rain)

With such strong sounds and attitude throughout the album so far, I did not expect Crazy to end on a bluesy pop ballad song. But I’m glad it did as Cold Rain showcases a completely different side of 4Minute; all tough girls have a vulnerable side too. The smooth piano riffs in the background are both beautiful and melancholic at the same time, softly accompanying the girls’ airy and husky vocals to express the hurt after a breakup.

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