It’s amazing what can be accomplished when the shackles of a big agency like YG Entertainment are thrown away. In just a couple of months, iKON members have released a full album and solo tracks/features. This is lovely to see, especially with so many years of infrequent comebacks.

Lead vocalist Jay (also known as Jinhwan) is next on the docket, delivering a smooth piece of r&b-flavored dance pop. Paradise doesn’t push outside of the box, but it’s a nice conduit for his skills. Its bassline is funky and propulsive, though quite generic. Jay’s vocals add flavor, skirting over the beat with flair. I just wish the chorus didn’t hinge so strongly on a whistled hook. We’ve heard way too much of this lately and it feels like a lazy approach to songwriting.

Grade: C