This spring, 82MAJOR’s Choke impressed with its addictive hip-hop production, but its lackluster hooks were quickly overshadowed by a similarly-themed comeback from fellow boy group YOUNITE. Still, the guys showed promise as hip-hop idols and new single Stuck (혀끝) seeks to capitalize on that sound.
The instrumental isn’t quite as addictive this time around, but its mix of rumbling bass and old-school samples creates an exciting brew. Once again, the song struggles most when it comes to finding a hook as equally engaging as its production. The chorus is less obvious this time, but also less memorable. Rambunctious verses give way to a duller centerpiece, though I love the vocal ad-libs that frame this segment. The entire track has this strange, herky-jerky energy, upending expectations in a way that ends up being weirdly satisfying. I have no idea how I’ll feel about this in a week’s time, but for now I’m eager to listen again.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
The production reminds me of Choke, except the bass isn’t too prominent and they seem to focus more on the minimalistic energy (maybe a minimalistic child of Choke and Geekin?) But I also enjoyed moments like Seongmo’s 2nd verse rap which was powered by old school-like drums (a way better alternative to a trap breakdown), and the slowed down outro, so there’s that. Etume also has some good idol rappers, so they really make the verses fun. They just need better hooks on top of their fun production and they’ll have a winning formula.
8 (7, 9, 8, 8) for me. Like Choke, I expect it to age well as well.
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I’m hearing early NCT-127 B-side, Fire Truck – Cherry Bomb era, like “Mad City” but update the samples to be the current hip hop flavor.
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This song was a confusing, exciting, and interesting listen. I wasn’t sure what the hook was but the backing vocal runs helped identify it and were a great choice/touch. Although these guys are currently my favorite rapping idols, I was surprised by the amount of rapping and lack of singing. Even the singers were rapping..which wasn’t bad.
The video was also an interesting watch, I really like how these kids don’t take themselves too serious and seem to be having fun.
On another note, I loved Geekin and enjoyed Choke but neither song reminded me of the other. The only similarity that I can kind of hear is in the vocal tones of both groups rappers. Either way…I think both groups are equally dope.
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This is an awesome and fun blend of old and new school vibes – But I had to turn off my subwoofer!
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