The parade of post-enlistment BTS solo projects continues with a pre-release from Jimin, leading up to a full album in July. I had to look up what a “smeraldo” is (it’s a type of flower), but apart from that brief confusion the title “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” instantly reminded me of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. I don’t think the concept is meant to be an ode to that classic, though both share the prospect of an invented band allowing its respective artist to expand his own sonic palette.
Smeraldo Garden Marching Band certainly brings new texture to Jimin’s work. From its Bavarian-themed video to the marching band percussion and odd vocal samples, this isn’t what I’d expect from him. I respect how the BTS members have experimented so heavily with their hiatus material. But like RM’s recent single, I feel Smeraldo Garden Marching Band may be an easier song to appreciate than fully enjoy. I’m fascinated by its off-kilter production and surrealistic atmosphere, but I’m not sure Jimin’s voice is the best compliment for this sound. Whatever filter he’s singing through during the mv isn’t working at all. Thankfully, the studio recording corrects this.
Smeraldo Garden Marching Band‘s quirky instrumental and vibe do most of the heavy lifting, especially as the track careens into its rousing finale. This kitchen sink production approach could have featured more fully throughout the song. A thick layer of brass would have benefitted the overall arrangement. Guest rapper Loco feels a little random, but not more so than anything else happening within the track. More than anything, I wish Smeraldo found a stronger melodic centerpiece. The chorus falls a bit flat compared to the song’s overall ambition.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
Grade: C+
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
its just ok. I thought Loco didnt really fit well with the vibe of the song
7.5/10 for me
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hear me out….most kpop songs do not need a rap part. They can exist without it and be good but with rap, it will compromise the song
LikeLiked by 1 person
So here is the thing about simple pop songs: they need a strong singer to deliver them. Its not a bad song, but Jimin isn’t the right voice to sing it. He shows up here with a muted frogginess, which has some kind of echo on it, and it isn’t working. It sounds like he is covering the song, and its his own song. The song itself, fine.
As for the song itself, it teases “band” and does not give me “band”. BBBD! Bring Back the Brass Dammit! A couple chords at the end don’t count. I want Full Brass Section. (… watch for the spinning thingy at 11:30)
LikeLike
Is it me, or is he singing “live” in the MV, and the echo we’re hearing is the backing track? The actual track on Spotify sounds different, without the echo.
LikeLike
Ah, maybe, though there are times when he isn’t using the mic. so some sort of hybrid. Like one of the late 2010’s music shows when everyone would singlalong to a full backing track and it always sounded off. Hybe is usually more meticulous with sound production in prerecorded performances then they are here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
no ive review?
LikeLike
It’s out now!
Song Review: IVE – Summer Festa | The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion
LikeLike
This is not as eccentric as I thought it would be from the title and mv. But I find it catchy and think I will have it in rotation, at least the version without that weird filter. I enjoy the mv, which looks like the pilot episode of a wacky new kids show.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s giving Teletubbies
LikeLiked by 2 people
He has a pic holding the Sgt Pepper Vinyl during his Like Crazy stint in Jimmy Fallon, so there’s def an inspo corelation.
It does sound like a live recording type of thing which fits with the theme of a live stage performance in the 90s. Lol.
It’s not deep, not the best but it is catchy feel good vibe type. I like the the choreo seems doable. I think. Haha
I still love his voice even though it’s a bit weird in the MV, the tone itself is whimsical and makes me smile.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was not what I would except from Jimin but I liked the song even though it is definitely not fitting his voice. I think it is a live recording over backtrack, which is a different choice for an MV for sure.
Also, as a long time ARMY, I am not being a fan of them releasing music during enlistment, I mean everybody could have used a break including the fans, in my opinion.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I could not disagree with your review more The song and video is so Jimin. It is a feel good happy song that will bring a smile to your face. And it served the purpose he was aiming for His light voice is perfect for the songs aesthetic And Loco, who is a phenomenal rapper fits in perfectly with his gentle voice. I think it’s one of the best songs and videos of the year It was light and airy, which makes for the perfect summer song
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sounds generic to me and the I Want you Babe, I want to hold Your Hand, I want you babe so cliche and simplistic lyrically in the chorus delivered in a rather weak and airy falsetto that lacks punch and projection. Underwhelming in my opinion.
LikeLiked by 1 person