The Boyz have gone all-out for the promotion of their newest album. Rat In The Trap is the third music video taken from the project, which makes me wish they would have done the same for the superior Christmas In August last summer. However, they’ve chosen the right tracks to highlight. Extra promo for Sunwoo and Eric’s Honey has turned that song into a real grower. And even on first listen, Rat In The Trap was my favorite of the new b-sides.
This special unit is composed of members Sangyeon, Jacob, Kevin, New, Ju Haknyeon and sees them taking on a slinkier, moody sound. Rat In The Trap blends a rootsy stomp to slick, understated vocals. It feels quite cinematic in places — especially the rousing pre-chorus. And although the chorus could be considered an anti-drop, it’s highlighted by a catchy vocal hook that keeps the arrangement feeling full.
But for me, this song has had the opposite trajectory as Honey. I still think it’s solid, but its charms threaten to grow repetitive as the track wears on. It’s one standout bridge, interesting modulation or instrumental switch-up away from greatness. Instead, Rat In The Trap plays things pretty safe. It’s another notch in The Boyz’ successful 2023-24 run, but I’m hoping they can really bring it home for the release of this album project’s final piece later this year.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
When I heard this on the album I felt it was too close to Watch It, but by itself I like it quite a lot. The chorus does get a bit monotonous and I wish they had used more of the electric guitar, like maybe in the back of the last chorus. Too bad they’re not going to promote this on music shows because Haknyeon is still out.
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More guitar is always better! What happened to Haknyeon? (I very much live under a rock).
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He has a back injury so had to sit out Watch It promotions.
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It’s precisely the third song I like the most on the album. I especially like the cadence of the chorus. Even though it can get a bit repetitive, it has a gripping energy. It makes me feel that I, indeed, am a silly little rat caught in the Boy’s trap.
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This ‘Phantasy’ series THE BOYZ have going on is absolutely fantastic. Both ‘Honey’ and ‘Rat In The Trap’ weren’t my favourite on the album but they have both grown on me significantly.
One thing that stops ‘Rat In The Trap’ from being great is that it builds up and halts too much. I wish that after the bridge, the final chorus was slightly more amped up and had a slightly more impactful climax. It was too monotone throughout the song.
8/10
Still wish that ‘Bad Luck’ got an MV…
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Oh, this is a pleasant surprise! It takes a while to really catch my attention, but it’s fun and slinky and it isn’t afraid to be a little dramatic. I am a big fan of guitar elements over a darker beat like this, and I think it really flavours this song. Reminds me a little of their earlier days (oh how I miss Right Here era).
Yes – I am a little sad that Hyunjae isn’t part of this one – he’s still my favourite voice in the Boyz even after all this time. I have no cause for complaint though, I’m glad to see them come out with something so solid and fun again. I suppose I still have a special little place in my heart for these Boyz.
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