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This post is by guest writer Jara Rowe.
One way to be recognized as a rapper in modern times is by putting out a mixtape. Trying to be seen as more than an idol rapper, that’s exactly what VIXX’s Ravi did in R.EBIRTH. Partnering with some high class names in Korean rap industry, he was very hands on with his first mixtape, producing, composing, arranging every track except one. One thing’s for sure with R.EBIRTH: Ravi has decisively shown that he has a promising future as a producer.
Track 1 – R.EBIRTH
R.EBIRTH, sharing the same name as the album, kicks off with a very serious tone. Piano and strings amplify interest to this mid-tempo hip hop track. Ravi exhibits a nice flow as he raps about being beat down by critics, but coming back stronger and prevailing in the end.
Track 2 – MOVE
Rougher than the previous track, MOVE is up next. This track has an addictive beat that is bound to keep you listening. Ravi’s flow is a lot faster while addressing his critics again. Ravi lets everyone know that he marches to the beat of his own drum and will “move” as he pleases.
Track 3 – Lean on me
Displaying a softer style, Lean on me suits Ravi really well. This track is upbeat and playful with lots of groove thanks to electronic synth washes. Ravi has somewhat of a fluffy delivery here, bringing a creamy singing style to partner with his normally raspy baritone rapping. Ravi holds his own in Lean on me displaying solid vocals and rapping skills.
Track 4 – OX
OX features BASICK, the winner of Show Me the Money 4. This track has an undeniable old school hip hop vibe with lightening speed rapping. Ravi and BASICK both discuss about their time on Show Me the Money 4 in this track. Unfortunately, OX loses some of its character due to an extremely monotonous chorus.
Track 5 – 뇌비우스의 띠 (Möbius Strip)
Opening the track by showing off his vocal abilities once again, Ravi delivers a slow tempo, R&B inspired track in Möbius Strip. This track features ESBEE, a Korean R&B singer. The tone and style of ESBEE’s singing differs, in the best way possible, from Ravi’s deep voice. The voices of these two come together to produce a great sounding, emotional number in Möbius Strip.
Track 6 – Control (Interlude)
Not reviewed.
Track 7 – 끄덕끄덕 (Nod Nod)
Nod Nod uses guitars and other unique instrumentation in this rap number, while also teaming up with rapper Donutman. In Nod Nod, Ravi once more addresses his detractors while stating that he doesn’t have anyone’s standards to live up to but his supporters. Donutman’s verse and delivery were solid, but the lyrical content is a bit raunchy and doesn’t fit with the message Ravi is trying to send in this track. In addition, the chorus becomes a bit redundant after the first time.
Track 8 – 착한 여자 (Good Girl)
The vibe of the mixtape changes again with the assistance of Good Girl. This number has a smooth yet funky beat with dancing synthesizers. Ravi gets help from HanHae, a member of Phantom and Show Me the Money 4 contestant, and Soulman, a Korean singer. Soulman’s vocals add more depth to the track and partner well with HanHae and Ravi’s rapping. This is another mellow track that flatters Ravi in the best way.
Track 9 – 아 몰라 일단 (Do the Dance)
SAM&SP3CK aided Ravi in producing, composing, and arranging Do the Dance. This track has somewhat of a frantic feel with a pumping beat, giving off more of an EDM vibe; this is definitely a club banger. The chorus is catchy but redundant like some of the other tracks. However, I believe that Ravi really brings Do the Dance alive during live performances.
Track 10 – Where should I go
Where should I go has one of the most unique colors on R.EBIRTH. This track is light and has a nice beat with oriental-sounding instrumentation. For this track, Ravi teamed up with another Show Me the Money 4 contestant, Microdot. Where should I go has one of Ravi’s best flow deliveries. Things were switched up which made it more pleasing to listen to; there were times where the rapping was rapid and times when it was relaxed and smooth. The backtrack also highlights the rapping from both Ravi and Microdot. Although the chorus is repetitive, the rap delivery added more interest and the lyrics were spit in varying tones to keep things engaging.
Track 11 – Where should I go (solo ver.)
Everything stated above still stands for the solo version of Where should I go. Ravi just proved that he can handle a song like this on his own. He takes the time to discuss the hardships VIXX has faced with winning multiple awards but still not being noticed since they’re not from a big agency.
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