Zico – ‘Gallery’ Album Review

This post is by guest writer Jara Rowe.

A jack of all trades, Block B‘s leader Zico, released his first mini album, Gallery. To establish himself as more than an idol and rapper, Zico was very hands on with this mini-album. He took on a creative director role by not only producing, but also helping with the visual direction of Gallery by giving input on album artwork and music video arrangements. As a result, Gallery flaunts a variety of colors and musical styles that suit many preferences. Similar to a gallery in a museum, Zico showcases entertaining, well-organized pieces of auditory art in this album.

Track 1 – VENI VIDI VICI

With an impactful opening, the tone is set with Veni Vidi Vici featuring DJ Wegun. This track has an old school hip hop aura but is partnered with a very modern, ruggedly produced musical backing. With bold lyrics and a confident delivery, Zico gives a solid flow in Veni Vidi Vici.

Track 2 – 유레카 (Eureka)

Taking an artistic turn, Eureka is next with a classic jazz vibe that is juiced up with trap beats. Zion.T lends his unique voice to this sultry song discussing a sexy woman. This track also has an inviting brass section that moves the song along and complements the voices of Zico and Zion.T. Although Eureka is the title track, it isn’t as memorable as some of the other tracks to me. However, the funky beat is sure to get anyone moving.

Track 3 -오만과 편견 (Pride & Prejudice)

The most mellow and sentimental track of this collection, Pride & Prejudice shows a new rap delivery from Zico which is softer than his normal technique. Pride & Prejudice also features the clear and alluring falsetto of Suran. Her singing style and pitch go well with Zico’s delicate, baritone rapping. With the piano and gentle horns, this is the most R&B influenced track on Gallery.

Track 4 – Boys and Girls

Getting the party started with a colorful, modern day hip hop track is Boys and Girls. This swag-filled anthem features the vocals of Babylon. Here Zico switches up his flow which allows it to ride along with the backtrack. Boys and Girls is a lively, upbeat song that makes me think of summer and warmth. I can surely see this song being played often during a summer road trip.

Track 5 – 날 (Day)

Day is a bona fide rap piece. Zico joins forces with Jtong, the leader of the underground Korean hip hop crew, Buckwilds Crew. The rapping is unpolished, dirty, and raw partnered with an uncomplicated beat and backtrack. But what makes Day the most powerful is the lyrical content. Zico calls out the cynics and takes up for his fans with aggressive lyrics that he delivers in a sometimes playful manner.

Track 6 – 말해 Yes or No

With an eerie, bass heavy opening, Yes or No is a rap ditty with clever diction. Penomeco and The Quiett lend verses to this trap, southern hip hop track. The diversity in the tones of the three rappers’ voices adds to the track’s progression. Boasting about himself, Zico has another comical yet hard hitting delivery. Yes or No has a sick beat that can be played to liven a dance club.

What Do You Think?

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