SF9 – ‘Breaking Sensation’ Album Review

Soon after conquering the charts with their previous title song, Roar, the rookie boys of SF9 are back for more recognition with mini-album, Breaking Sensation. Breaking Sensation saw immediate commercial success by breaking into top five of iTunes Kpop charts in 13 countries and achieving 5th spot on the Billboard World Album Chart. SF9 indeed proves that they’re an upcoming group with much potential, however, the album itself saw widely inconsistent tracks with gems and duds alike.

Track 1 – Intro: 이별 즈음에(Around Farewell)

Around Farewell is a hip hop intro by the rap line of SF9. The start of the track sounds off and jarring next to the middle of the track that went all-out hip hop. The sudden entry of piano chords sounded out of place, making the intro a messy number overall.

Track 2 – 쉽다 (Easy Love)

Despite a rocky start, title track Easy Love saves the day. Its an acoustic ballad and dance pop mixed track that is mindful of the overall mellowness and melancholy. The arrangement is what I deem as the highlight of the song. Blending together ballad, hip hop, and R&B elements is risky, but well paid off in Easy Love.

Track 3 – Watch Out

Watch Out gives off a familiar Eminem vibe with SF9’s own twist to it. This 90’s inspired hip hop tune with disc-scratching is playful yet strong thanks to the power rap. Its varied beats and catchy hooks will leave you keep singing on.

Track 4 – 머리카락 보일라 (Hide and Seek)

Hide and Seek is a jazzy 70s-like track with peppy trumpets and funky piano sounds. Though I do like the nostalgia it evokes in me, the rap section threw me off in the latter part of the song due to the ill-managed transition.

Track 5 – 이러다가 울겠어 (Fall Down)

The next track, Fall Down has a more futuristic sound compared to the other tracks on Breaking Sensation. It contains rhythmical synths that sound like they’re borrowed from an 8-bit game. However the song didn’t really leave much impression as I think it lacked SF9’s identity.

Track 6 – 왜 이래 (Why)

An acoustic guitar-based track ends the album on a smooth note. Why is a mid-tempo pop and R&B crossover number that feels relaxing and refreshing. The doowops add to the carefree vibe of the song and help make it a perfect fit for the spring season.

What Do You Think?

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