A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.

H1-KEY remain one of K-pop’s most underrated girl groups, releasing another super solid album. Their latest just happens to be summer-themed, which is like catnip to me this time of year. Title track Summer Was You provides the template, giving a taste of the rock makeover that also fuels opening song Good For U. It’s not the genre I immediately imagine when it comes to summer, but the girls make it work.

Fans missing Dreamcatcher’s brand of idol pop/rock should certainly turn their attention here. Good For U has that classic “opening-to-an-anime” drive, bounding forward with tons of energy as it climbs to its rollicking chorus. A decent amount of synth softens the heavy edge, but it’s the insistent background vocals and asides that truly give this character and texture. I love the call-and-response approach used throughout the track. It’s as if they included the inevitable fan chants within the song itself, encouraging singalong participation that fosters a greater sense of immersion. It’s a lot of fun.

Grade: B