Onew pre-released a track last month, previewing his new solo album that drops today. Yay left me a bit unsure, though I appreciate the creative freedom he now has to release the songs and styles he wants. Title track Winner certainly fits within his wheelhouse, merging cathartic balladry with rock elements to forge a track that grows quite dramatic as it reaches its conclusion.
When it comes to SHINee solo efforts, I can’t say Onew’s music compels me in the same way as Taemin or Key’s flashier sound, but that’s just a matter of musical preference. His songs are understandably vocal-focused and play toward a different audience. I can imagine Winner soundtracking some big cinematic drama, much like the content of its music video. It has a sentimental sound and builds nicely as it unfolds. As usual, Onew’s performance is assured and emotive. I like the sound of his vocals against a grittier rock instrumental.
Of course, you know my thoughts about a song will inevitably come down to melody. It really is the most important element in my eyes, especially for a song like this. Winner moves through all the expected motions, making its melody quite predictable. This is satisfying in a “you get what you pay for” kind of way. As long as your expectations align with what Winner delivers, you’re in for a good time. However, I think there’s a more riveting version of this song waiting to be written.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
The melody of this is beautiful but nothing too flashy. I’m still waiting for a song from him on the level of Bad Love or Danger
my rating is the same
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Yup, me too. I am waiting …. patiently.
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9/10 for me but that’s bc I love his voice (clearly biased 🙃) and bc I love dramatic ballads.
Ah! And it goes beyond 3 minutes (also if it’s just by one second).
The bridge was heavenly.
Circle is still my fav. In a way this new song reminded me of Circle somehow….
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Madness, the song is excellent!
Nice, you’ve been sleeping on these ballads for too long! Poor Changsub didn’t even get a review 🥺
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Not my vibe, but his beautiful voice always delivers. I got reports that the rest of the album is more to my liking, so hoping to check it out today!
It would make sense for Jinki to slowly add less ballads to his repertoire considering he has been more active in the festival circuit lately and he has expressed interest in university events and such, which do favour more animated music imo. I truly like it when he delivers those chill, happy-go-lucky vibes. Drum Beat didn’t seem all that impressive on first listen but it is SO CATCHY. I am sure it’s a lot of fun in a concert!
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Technically a mid-tempo.
It’s fine. Solidly done, but unambitious. There are parts here and there that remind me of Justin Timberlake’s “Mirror” which comes around on the radio from time to time.
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