When we last heard from H1-KEY, they offered the shimmering pop goodness of Seoul (Such A Beautiful City). That song built upon a varied discography with little sonic through line apart from strong melodies. New single Let It Burn (뜨거워지자) continues to shift their sound, taking a pop/rock approach that feels grittier than most idol releases.

Let It Burn reminds me of the brief mid-2000’s era where pristine dance pop sounds transitioned to angsty radio rock. There’s more than a little Ashlee Simpson or early Hilary Duff in this song. I was never a huge fan of this sound, which probably informs me feelings around Let It Burn. It takes a killer set of melodies to pull me past the angst. And when it comes to hooks, Let It Burn is only so-so.

H1-KEY’s best work has succeeded on the strength of its songwriting, and Let It Burn continues this approach with a fully-fleshed out structure. We’re even treated to a standout bridge. But compared to a song like 2023’s breakthrough Rose Blossom, the elements just don’t compel in the same way. The chorus borders on plodding while the verses offer a call and response between melody and rap. It’s all quite pleasant, but missing the knockout moments that would have me rushing back for more.

Grade: C+