For his new min-album Television, Block B‘s Zico has returned with dual title tracks, and each paints a very different side to his style. While Artist opted for a bouncy hip-hop/pop concoction, Anti takes things darker and more melodic. As part of this approach, Zico has enlisted r&b singer G.Soul for Anti‘s hook, and it turns out to be an inspired idea. The two have vastly contrasting tones, but this diversity of sound gives Anti a real sense of dynamics.

The song kicks off with its sprawling chorus, which is a dramatic bit of melody that gives instant weight to the track. I love the electric guitar in the background, adding texture to G.Soul’s already emotive vocal. The melody itself gives me major Love The Way You Lie vibes, but reinvented with k-pop’s sensibilities in mind.

Though Zico’s verses aren’t quite as striking as the chorus, their growing sense of urgency and emotion give Anti an effective through-line. This culminates in a final verse that’s a real showstopper. As church organs paint a foreboding atmosphere, Zico’s performance grows heightened to the point of frenzy. It’s a big moment, and a strong climax to Anti‘s mini-drama. This won’t be a song for every occasion, as its suffocating mood doesn’t exactly highlight the kind of fun-in-the-sun ideal we associate with summer, but it’s the stronger of Zico’s double title tracks and a fantastic choice of collaborations between two of k-pop’s most internationally-minded artists.