Years ago, I used to refer to the impending autumn as K-pop’s “ballad season.” That’s changed recently, with many ballads replaced by more upbeat idol tracks on the charts. But with BTS’s V and EXO’s D.O. releasing solo music this month, we’re seeing a resurgence of slower material.
Somebody is not a ballad, but its downbeat groove embraces a subdued sound palette. I didn’t expect anything else from D.O. He’s always favored r&b and acoustic, coffeehouse fare. This song leans toward the former, shining spotlight on his always-strong vocals. Even if its energy may be muted, there’s a way to make this style of song compelling. EXO themselves have done so on more than one occasion. However, Somebody is too formulaic and restrained to ignite many sparks.
The song’s best moments happen during the bridge and choruses, where D.O.’s performance becomes punchier and more emotive. The melodies are slight but catchy, driven by a rhythmic guitar loop and prominent percussion. The verses adopt a cadence almost like rap, picking up pace even as the instrumental slows. Overall, I slightly prefer his pre-release I Do, but Somebody will definitely satisfy fans of D.O.’s style.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 7 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.5 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
I know its not a ballad but come on, Why do SM talented and skilled vocalist love these subdue almost ballady tracks? I am waiting for the day when D.O, Chen and more give me a stronger RnB track. Thank goodness for Baekhyun, He is the only one to give me a nice, sexy Rnb THAT i LIKE.
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I mean, Chen just released a Japanese album with a couple of “strong” tracks imo (ex: “On the Road” actually leans more towards upbeat r&b territory) so you might want to give it a listen.
I do feel you with most of SM vocalists releasing some subdued tracks instead of challenging themselves a bit more. It would be really nice if they go out of the box and do something really groundbreaking in the future.
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They release what they want to as artists and the ones who enjoy the genres consume it. Chen and D.O. have been releasing solo music for a while and they already have their music identity established so I don’t get why some people keep complaining about their artistic decisions expecting something else, especially when their songs are so popular and loved by fans.
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Pleasant.
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Honestly, my thoughts on the track would be the same as those of “I Do”, pleasant but too subdued. Even so, I’m glad we finally got another album from D.O., so I can take what I get.
Even so, I thought the album was a pretty nice improvement from his debut, with “Lost” (surprisingly upbeat) being my personal favorite track of the album. His vocals are so dramatic there. I thought it would’ve made a better title track for his album; it fits his album’s theme more than “Somebody”.
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It is a nice song, but I crave an emotional connection. Who knows, maybe someday I’ll find a memory to attach it to.
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I enjoyed it, and I enjoyed the rest of the mini album, too. Very easy listening, and goodness, I do love to listen to this man sing. I appreciate the sound he’s established in his solo work.
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