For years now, many fans have been asking for a more “mature” concept from Twice. The use of that word “mature” always gives me pause. Who decided that slower, darker songs are automatically “mature”? I’d venture to say I’m older (maybe not more mature, though!) than the majority of K-pop fans. However, I still prefer a bright, upbeat concept.
This new unit Misamo sees Twice’s Japanese members embracing a moodier sound and energy. This didn’t work very well on the dull pre-release Marshmallow, and works only slightly better here. Misamo offer a striking, stylish visual and the three harmonize well. There’s no doubt they slay this concept, but like the broken record I am, I’m going to say that — yet again — I’m craving a stronger song.
Do Not Touch‘s skeletal percussion and guitar elements show promise, unveiling an atmospheric vibe with plenty of space to showcase the ladies’ vocal blend. But the melodies are constrained and boring, climaxing in a chorus that feels more like spoken-word. The songwriting feels so throwaway — an afterthought to the luxurious visuals and fashionable concept.
| Hooks | 6 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.25 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
the whole time i was listening to the song all i could think of was how they missed the chance of a lifetime to name their sub-unit “MiMoSa”… oh and the song is a snooze
LikeLiked by 6 people
I didn’t like it much after listening to it for the first time but that chorus really found a place in my head. It’s super catchy. And the girls look and sound super confident. I love it.
The MV is a stunning masterpiece. Just wow!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the girls but it don’t get much worse than this.
That’s two big duds from MISAMO.
LikeLike
I’m left wanting for more. Sounds like a filler song, not a title track.
LikeLike
So far they don’t have much of an identity or direction. Its not bad by any stretch it just isn’t good enough to care about. Its a song you have to go back and listen to in order to remember what it sounds like. I feel like it’ll grow on me but I also don’t like wanting a Twice song to grow on me. They’re my favorite group, I wanna fangirl.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Your aside is interesting because I agree that darker concepts/imagery or sleekness don’t equate to mature concepts or maturity just like bright colors don’t always mean innocence but it does get conflated a bit since Kpop and Jpop can conflate those meaning with each other. For me it always comes down to lyrical content instead and in that arena this definitely screams maturity. A consent bop is ALWAYS welcome and I think having sleekness to this imagery and costuming does evoke seeing them more as adult women vs. as a group of brightness. Everything feels intentional that way and while the song – based on these comments so far – is slightly divisive I can say that I do like it and did so instantly, not something I can say about marshmellow. Hopefully it does well for them!
LikeLike
how difficult is it for JYP to get real Japanese songwriters to make songs for them
LikeLiked by 3 people
It sounds like a b-side.
I like the music video.
I like the chorus.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I really do like the visuals and they pull the concept off really well. So just seeing that change is a win. However, I don’t think these three have the vocals to make this type of song worth listening to. The song doesn’t have much going on as far as melody, so I can’t really blame them. side note, I really do miss momo rapping
LikeLike
its fine
LikeLike
the rejected ariana demos just keep on coming wow
(sidenote lmlt and shh felt more my everything era-esque while this one is more in line w her more recent albums)
LikeLike
I actually liked the simplicity of the song. Unlike many other K-pop releases this year, I didn’t find it to be boring and I thought it was catchy. I especially enjoyed Momo’s rap verses and I’m happy that she’s finally getting the chance to showcase how good of a rapper she really is, but to each their own.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is amazing how I disagree with almost every review for songs you have, we must have very different tastes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They want a mature Twice meaning the content of their songs. More grownup themes – levels of relationship more complex than teenyboppers experience and/or embracing their sexuality more. Both of those are ways acts become mature — most use the easy way by just being more sexual (“Dirty” by Christina Aguilera; “Slave For You” by Britney Spears for example). Others just get more complex in the themes of their music (“Do Not Touch” by MiSaMo being in this category)
LikeLike
I really love this song, it’s so clean and the MV is divine. my only issue is I can’t help but think about how jihyo’s voice will make this track go from great to iconic
LikeLiked by 1 person