Thus far, rookies TIOT have opted for a bad boy rocker sound with their debut track. The song itself didn’t work for me at all, though its band elements showed promise. New single The Long Season (그 계절 긴 터널을 지나) takes a softer approach, bolstering its guitar and drums instrumental with plenty of melody. It’s a much more successful effort.

K-pop (especially boy group K-pop) seems to be moving in a lighter, more melodic direction and it’s nice to hear idols singing with an effusiveness that showcases their talent. The Long Season could have easily been a track from DAY6 or ONEWE. Even its perfunctory rap verse has a melodic edge. The chorus is especially effective, building to multiple peaks that give it a satisfying sense of range. The guys’ performance feels authentic and natural throughout, free from too much studio trickery.

In short, The Long Season brings a classic pop song approach that feels fresh within today’s K-pop market. I’m not sure it’s unique or memorable enough to stand the test of time, but it’s certainly an improvement on their debut and gives them a promising niche moving forward.

Grade: B