3piece are one of those very under-the-radar acts hampered only by their lack of notoriety and resources. Their debut single borrowed sonic touchstones from K-pop’s past (namely, tropical pop), which definitely appeals to me. However, the music missed the extra spark that a bigger budget could likely add. New single Light Up (피어올라) follows a similar trajectory but sets its sights further back into K-pop’s second and third generation.
On the surface, I’m delighted to hear Light Up‘s hearty vocal arrangement. We don’t hear girl groups sing this way anymore, layering their vocals into big, splashy centerpieces. This style had its heyday in the early-to-mid 2010’s but has become more minimalist and threadbare since. It’s due for a resurgence, along with the splashy brass that underlines much of Light Up.
But while I appreciate this approach and hear tons of potential in 3piece, the song itself could use some work. The hook is a little meandering and still relies too much on sing-talk in a way that doesn’t compliment this style of track. The effusive production is the star here, elevating a so-so skeleton of a song into something much more enjoyable. Hopefully this will be a stepping stone toward stronger things to come.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 7 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
I was wondering if I’d see a review for this one. I stumbled on it yesterday, and I agree, the production is super fun. The song itself needs editing (30 seconds before the first verse really starts?). I’m rooting for this trio, though.
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I ran into this release/trio last night for the first time and was looking for the right post to suggest them for a review lol
I definitely agree that the song shows great promise and I hope they keep going in this direction because it’s almost there.
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Thank you for doing this song. I’ve had it on repeat and really wanted to know your thoughts
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First time hearing this group. Sure, this isn’t a masterpiece, but the potential is there!! Early-to-mid 2010’s style is an interesting choice too, considering two of the members used to be in groups that debuted around that time (although their previous work doesn’t sound much like this..?)
Well, I’m rooting for them 🙂
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Ohhh but this is so fun! I am ALL for this sound making a comeback, and I think this one has enough punch to work, even if it lacks a very strong melodic chorus.
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Very much like JYP’s classic “Honey”
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