Despite my negative reaction to pre-release Koong, I’ve been playing Xikers’ new album quite often. Title track Do Or Die is fantastic, and songs like Run and Sunny Side are surprisingly groovy. Homeboy‘s hazy, downbeat sound is a surprising choice for follow-up single, but the song has grown on me with time.
Homeboy‘s verses utilize familiar vocal effects so-loved by KQ Entertainment, but I think the track would actually benefit from a more straightforward approach. When the guys are singing without these effects during the bridge, it’s clear they have lovely tones that are more than capable of driving the song on their own. Their blend during the chorus is also enjoyable, making me wonder how a more stripped-down version of Homeboy could sound.
One thing’s for sure: Xikers add their own personality to anything they record. I may not love every moment of Homeboy, but it offers its own perspective that feels directly tied to the group themselves.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 7 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
Literally SOTY for me. We can do without the filler intro though.
9.5/10 for me
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I just can’t get around the vocal effects. After a one note chorus for a measure or three, the “we’ll fly” at 1:16 is all tin and it keeps repeating its assault on my ears.
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KOONG!
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Despite they’re definitely too ATEEZ (which is not a fault, of course, but it’s a limit anyway), since ATEEZ is one of my favourite groups to me they’re the best rookies of the year. I hope they improve their sound moving to new directions indeed, because they proved they’ve got a great charisma and a good talent.
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Despite they’re definitely too ATEEZ (which is not a fault, of course, but it’s a limit anyway), since ATEEZ is one of my favourite groups to me they’re the best rookies of the year. I hope they improve their sound moving to new directions indeed, because they proved they’ve got a great charisma and a good talent.
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All of xikers songs feel really unique to them, and even the duds are entertaining. KOONG is the meme of the year.
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I love Xikers. Their songs make me feel something.
Songs like Do or Die make me feel like I’ve been picked up and shaken around, in a good way. It’s like being at a rock concert and catching your breath afterwards.
Songs like Homeboy and Skaters have an emotional undertone that tugs at my heartstrings. They make me feel a bit teary for some reason.
I really hope these boys do well, because I want more.
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