Review

Song Review: Billlie – Domino (Butterfly Effect)

Billlie - Domino (Butterfly Effect)I’m not as familiar with Billlie’s discography as others, so I was confused by the “Japanese version” tag attached to this music video. Is there a Korean version of Domino? I certainly can’t find one. Regardless, this synth-heavy sound would be a great direction for the group to take in any music market, melding their quirky worldbuilding to a big pop hook.

I’ve always been a fan of the ethereal side of girl group music, highlighted by groups like Lovelyz and Oh My Girl. Domino touches on these sounds while retaining a sense of anything-goes wonder. I’m immediately taken by the lower pitch that opens the track. I wish more girl groups would explore the full range of their vocals rather than immediately go high and forceful. Domino is at its best when the performance feels light and easy, complimenting the comforting tones of the instrumental’s synths.

There’s a bit too much flitting around during the verses for my taste, but Domino is anchored by a strong synthwave chorus that gives the track plenty of propulsion. An entire song in this vein could be very thrilling. Domino doesn’t quite get there, but it’s not for lack of trying. From electric guitar flourishes to gurgling squiggles of bass, its brisk frame is overflowing with ideas.

Hooks 8
 Production 9
 Longevity 9
 Bias 8
 RATING 8.5

Grade: B

9 thoughts on “Song Review: Billlie – Domino (Butterfly Effect)

    • The track officially released on the 7th at midnight in Japan, and for Japanese releases it’s quite common that they’re only available on streaming platforms in a country once it also hits that date. So it’ll still take a while until the track is available globally.

      Liked by 1 person

    • For me, I found that the chorus is quite strong in terms of the melody, haha. (excluding the play play play domino parts :>) It do reminds me of some old J-Pop Songs in 2010’s but I just could not named it.

      The second verse also do lift me up some, but it is just way too short to lead to another pre-chorus & chorus. If the vocal could be more stronger that following with the instrument’s flow it would be a banger to me.

      A overall 8.5 for me as well.

      Liked by 1 person

  1. Nice to hear them do a retro sound. I think this song really works because the ethereal sound is anchored by an emotional undercurrent (longing?).

    I like their lower register too! Wish they had returned to it for the second verse.

    Also isn’t it a blessing that all of Billlie’s rappers are competent singers too?

    Like

Leave a reply to AESSIX Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.