Around this time last year, U-KISS re-emerged with a song that ended up in my year-end top ten, showcasing the continued power of second-gen stalwarts. Fortunately, this wasn’t just a fleeting reunion. The guys are back with another new album and title track Stay With Me (너는 내 모든 곳에 있어).

This time around, the music feels much more in line with “song for the fans” anniversary material. Stay With Me receives only a dimly-lit performance video and brings the energy closer to a ballad. Setting expectations accordingly, the track accomplishes its goal and includes enough musical drama to remain interesting throughout.

K-pop acts don’t often promote ballads, but they can make nice counterprogramming during the hot summer months. Stay With Me is very second-gen coded, from its lush arrangement to its hearty melodies. I enjoy it best when the guys are joined by electric guitar and building percussion, but if the song wasn’t promoted as the album’s title track I don’t know that I’d flock to it with the same enthusiasm. It’s a sturdy pop track, but I’m dying for another blast of The Wonderful Escape.

Grade: C+