I’ve been jokingly referring to newly-debuted group The Wind as “BFriend,” and I have a feeling that moniker is going to stick. So far, their music is a note-perfect re-creation of GFriend’s debut year. This alone scores them massive points from me. How refreshing to hear a new boy group do something totally different from their peers!
Of course, musical cosplay doesn’t guarantee an excellent song, and Island feels more like an interesting first step than a future classic. Its classic GFriend sound is omnipresent, from the stabs of synth and guitar to the bubbly, buoyant tempo. The melodies are also a clear tribute. They could have been ripped straight from Me Gustas Tu or Glass Bead. I honestly can’t believe I’m hearing this in 2023. It puts The Wind in a niche category, but almost all of my favorite artists are niche. “Niche” means you’ve got your own musical perspective, separate from whatever the current trends may be.
Personal bias aside, I wish Island delivered a stronger set of melodies. It never finds the one killer hook it needs to stand out. But, this style of song often improves with time and familiarity, and I can imagine Island securing a long-running spot in my summer playlist. The Wind are still very young, but I’m heartened by their commitment to big vocals and earnest, uncomplicated pop. I can’t wait to hear what they do in the future.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.5 |
Grade: B
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
The pre release song got released as a full song 🙏
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I’m so glad it’s not just the short version!
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The Wind. De Windy.
OK, listening again after reading the above, yes it sounds like alt-Gfriend girl group song as sung by a boy band. That synth wash the producers salt quietly throughout, and lift in the post chorus hook, very Gfriend.
I think it is good not great. I am feeling basic bright theme summery boy band with retro elements. (Retro being 7-8 years ago.) The styling is shorts and button down with ties like young school boys which may as well be pastel sailor suits, so for me it skews verrrryy young.
Who knows, maybe the song and the group will grow on me, become another Golcha.
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Its really interesting to see a boy group carrying on a more girlish sound, though I don’t think it really works in the market imo. Still like the song, not perfect but bringing back memories.
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I immediately thought Gfriend also, even some of the melodies and chord progressions sound similar?
I really like this. It also reminds me a little bit of early Golcha. I hope they continue with this type of sound and develop it further, because I agree that this song needs a stronger melody and more standout moments (and maybe better mixing or something? I don’t know, some parts feel a bit flat or choppy, or something, not fully fleshed out).
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I love this and the album. Corny but catchy. My earholes are enjoying this “Into The New World”-core as the kids say.
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Honestly expected a bit more from Highlight’s company. 8.5 seems a bit generous.
Decent enough song though, will definitely check out their future stuff.
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Island is a very refreshing song.
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I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard this. Where am I? This is pure pop excellence. They used the “powerful innocence” concept very faithfully. Though to be honest, I much prefer their other song “빛을 담아 너에게 줄게”
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