Bastarz – ‘Welcome 2 Bastarz’ Album Review

This post is by guest writer Jara Rowe.

Block B‘s first official subunit Bastarz consisted of two dancers and a rapper released their second mini-album, Welcome 2 Bastarz. Bastarz typically has a tougher hip hop edge compared to Block B’s style. Members B-Bomb, U-Kwon, and P.O completely made this album their own by participating in the production and showcased their unique charms. Welcome 2 Bastarz is full of gems and brings the listener diverse sounds across multiple genres.

Track 1 – 이기적인 걸 (Selfish & Beautiful Girl)

Selfish & Beautiful Girl has a satisfying and nostalgic old school funk feel with a nice groove and horn sounds. Bastarz shows a new side to them by focusing on more of a pop dance track rather than hip hop to kick off Welcome 2 Bastarz. But perhaps because this style is not their forte, Selfish & Beautiful Girl is not memorable despite a somewhat catchy melody.

Track 2 – Make It Rain

Bastarz turn up the heat with Make It Rain, which is also the title track of the album. This undoubtedly hip hop based number has an intense but simple backtrack, and is a lot more hard-hitting than the previous track. Make It Rain has an easy to follow chorus that adds to its character. Bastarz teamed up with Dean to composed the track and stay true to their hip hop roots.

Track 3 – That’s Right

With a stimulating groovy rhythm, That’s Right is the most unique sounding track on the album. The old school tribute gives this chill track a relaxing vibe as the rapping and singing flow seamlessly over the funky instrumental. The horns, claps, and occasional record scratch all add to the upbeat spirit of the song.

Track 4 – 타이트하게 (Tightly)

Tightly changes up the mood with its sexy and sweet charm. This track entered at a great time to give Welcome 2 Bastarz more variety as all tracks have been more or less the same tempo up to this point. Tightly is a piano and drum based R&B tune that allowed the vocalists to show off their capabilities. P.O’s rapping was also toned down to appropriately match with the overall atmosphere of the song.

Track 5 – 숨은 그림 찾기 (Find the Hidden Picture)

Keeping the tempo down, Find the Hidden Picture is a rich sounding track with a slightly darker tone. This is a musically sophisticated number that allowed all three members to shine. In particular, the vocalists displayed great sentimentality over the sweet key strokes. Find the Hidden Picture also had a very memorable rap that fit with the song’s styling.

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