I (Cha Yoon Ji) – ‘I Dream’ Album Review

B1A4 Baro’s younger sister, Cha Yoon Ji made her solo debut with stage name I under the same entertainment label earlier this year. Even before debut, I is known for her amazing dance skills, so we’re naturally curious about her vocal abilities. I Dream contains five pop ditties including a title track that features the legendary rapper and producer, Tiger JK. Thus, the bar has been raised high. Unfortunately, I Dream fell a tad short of our expectations with a mixed bag of outcomes.

Track 1 – 간절히 바라면 이뤄질 거야 (I Wish)

Starting off with the title track, I Wish is a pop track with a hint of 90’s vibe adorned with funky synths. Tiger JK’s rap is the highlight of the track, which is not too strong to overpower the upbeat track and not too mild to be underrepresented. While I do enjoy this fun tune, it’s a bit too intense for I’s sweet vocals.

Track 2 – 별이 된 아이 (Star Child)

Star Child sounds futuristic at first then unexpectedly turns all charming when the first verse enters. It has a retro groove to it along with a playful beat. Though bearing a girl group-like melody, I definitely still adore this listenable track.

Track 3 – I Dream

The next song, I Dream, is indeed a dreamy one peppered with whimsical harmonies. It’s got a really catchy hook around the chorus, which I deem is the highlight of the track. However, the transition from the verse to the chorus is a bit jarring as it suddenly switches into a party pop tune, thereby disrupting the overall flow of the song.

Track 4 – All Right

Sounding similar to your usual feminine girl group track, All Right uses a variety of style in its synths. It goes sweet in the verses and turns into a danceable track during the chorus. Although its cheerful beat and melody paint a pretty image of blossoming flowers, All Right is rather bland and not memorable.

Track 5 – My Melody

My Melody closes the album with beautiful guitar riffs. It’s a pop rock number with I sings her heart out. Within I Dream, My Melody has the most noticeable uniqueness and stands out in a refreshing way. The song has enough intensity to match and elevate I’s clear vocals, making it the gem of the album.

What Do You Think?

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