Ailee – ‘A New Empire’ Music Review

After a year since the release of a gem (that is Ailee’s album Vivid), she makes a compelling comeback with A New Empire, an album that takes a slight turn from the typical style of her previous songs and delves into the EDM genre — one that is common among idol groups but not often touched by Korean solo artists. In addition to the uniqueness and boldness of A New Empire, this album, as her previous albums have done, highlights the versatility of her voice and how it can invoke so many feelings within the listener.

Track 1 – Home

The title track of A New Empire, Home truly exhibits Ailee’s diva side. The fact that this song is easy to listen to and infuses a slight bit of EDM makes this a suitable title track. Yoon Mi Rae’s charismatic rap here adds on to the emotion in Ailee’s voice, bringing a sense of stability to the song and ensures that Ailee’s voice doesn’t overwhelm the track. It would have been better if Ailee utilized her signature high notes better in this song, though.

Track 2 – 까꿍 (Peekaboo)

While Home shows Ailee’s diva side, Peekaboo meanwhile showcases Ailee’s mature, in a way “American” side. Her tuneful vocals blend in perfectly with the pleasant melody, without drowning out the beat. The reason why I gave a better review for this song than Home is that I can imagine Home being sung by world-renowned singers such as Ariana Grande, while Peekaboo is unique in its own way.

Track 3 – Feelin’

Feelin’ is a song a tad too similar to Peekaboo, since both sound practically the same and showcase Ailee’s “American” side, except that Feelin’ is more fast-paced and makes you want to bob your head along to the melody. But the fact that Eric Nam and Ailee’s voices actually make up for each other’s weaknesses, and as a whole provide a strong footing for the song, made me give a more positive review.

Track 4 – Live Or Die

A medium-paced R&B song, Live or Die is a song that truly shows how soulful Ailee can be. Here she varies her voice greatly, safely ensuring that the song does not get monotonous. Last but not least, the melody of the song is mystical and quirky, capturing the listener’s attention to the last second.

Track 5 – I Need You

I Need You is an emotional ballad, Ailee’s trademark. However, this also means that this song takes the safe route, which I slightly dislike. But, as always, Ailee’s passionate, heartfelt singing ensures that this track is a successful one.

Track 6 – If You

Like I Need You, If You is a ballad, but it gives off more positive and cheerful vibes. I haven’t heard many ballads that make the listener feel good and happy, so this song is a unique one. It won’t make you deliriously happy like a party anthem would, but it will definitely make you smile. With Ailee’s sentimentality and a vibrant, warm melody, this song is a masterpiece that perfectly closes off the album.

What Do You Think?

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