One of my favorite GOT7-related projects was sub-unit JJ Project, which consisted of members Jinyoung and Jay B. 2017’s Tomorrow, Today grew into a big standout that convinced me of Jinyoung’s skill with a melody. Six years later and he’s returned as a soloist with his own mini album. Title track Cotton Candy retains elements of his past work, couching them in a mellow groove.

It’s hard to know how to write about a song like this. I mean, it’s impossible to hate Cotton Candy. It’s too smooth and pleasant. But, it casts its ambitions so low that it feels like reviewing elevator music as you move from floor to floor. This is very much a “vibe” track – not the kind of single that hits you over the head with its unique construction or dynamic performance. As such, Cotton Candy makes for a nice listen. It has a bit of bounce that elevates it over most coffeehouse fare. And, Jinyoung’s warm vocals are tailor-made for this sound. I can’t complain about the song itself except to say it’s a bit… boring.

Despite its omnipresent groove, Cotton Candy feels light as a feather. It’s so wispy and whispered. It’s hushed even if you turn the volume all the way up. This makes for ideal background music if you’re hosting some swanky get together. Wine sipping, perhaps? A calm game of Scrabble? I’m the type of music listener who wants a song to grab me by the collar and pull me in, so Cotton Candy won’t find its way onto many of my playlists. But, I can’t fault the track for what it is.

Grade: C