After a slew of singles, newcomers HITGS are finally releasing their first mini album. The Chuseok holiday is a very odd time to do so, but they’re out with new title track Happy today. So far, their music has been pitched to a young audience, at times sounding like something you’d hear on a children’s show. Happy has those moments as well, but also experiments with more refined textures.
Happy‘s opening chant does not inspire confidence, but the song rights itself almost immediately. Overall, it’s a breezy pop track, melding current girl group trends with a bit more pep. The melodies are strong throughout, even building toward a key change at the finale. That “happy, happy” chant returns often, but its muted enough to work rather than repel. A satisfying strings sample reminds me of hits from IVE and ILLIT in a good way, adding oomph as the song’s chorus crests.
Overall, Happy is uncluttered and safe, but in a comforting way. It’s got the slightly gimmicky appeal of older K-pop generations and the wistful, easy-listening energy of the industry’s current crop. This combination gives HITGS their best single yet, and it’s not a close competition.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.25 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
There are strong elements that make a fine pop song. In theory. I was thinking old T-ara stuff Lovey Dovey era blended with contemporary IVE stuff and also perhaps Fifty-fifty Cupid flavors.
In practice, the song wears itself out by 2:15 because when that key change hits I think whoo thank god for the key change we really need that key change. That’s not a good sign.
Rating is about right, flat to low 8 for me.
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I can’t believe I’m typing these words but… I liked a song titled “Charizzma” much more than this. I suppose I just can’t get over the “happy happy a e i o minus u” chant here, something about it is a little grating. And just the word Charizzma itself should be enough to throw me off too, but the melodies in that one were much more catchy for me, especially the chorus.
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