Though JYP Entertainment’s output had a rough start this year, the agency has been unfurling hit after hit over the past few months. They’re set to finish 2025 strong and that extends to global (but mostly K-pop so far) group NEXZ. I haven’t been a fan of most of their music and new single Beat-Boxer still doesn’t wow me, but it feels like we’re slowly moving in the right direction.
There’s still plenty of shout-singing happening here, as Beat-Boxer‘s verses are loud and proud without really amounting to much. But as we swerve into the chorus, the song begins to tentatively embrace melody. It’s shouty melody, yes, but the vocal layering here isn’t completely removed from what we used to hear from groups like SHINee and EXO. The second half of this refrain is especially promising, delivering a more robust sound that works as the song’s centerpiece.
When it comes down to it, I wish Beat-Boxer was a bit more focused. The overall sound is very busy, which adds energy at the expense of a satisfying throughline. There are plenty of interesting things happening in the production (especially the percussion) and these elements need more space to breathe. Like so many recent K-pop songs, the arrangement becomes like a blender, with every sound being shredded into the same generic mush. Beat-Boxer could easily become a great funk workout if given a more lithe, intoxicating groove, but even in its current form I find it more enjoyable than most of the group’s recent work.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
When I was listening, I also heard SM-type song in construction. I think the difference is that SM creates or finds better samples and uses them better. The source material combined with better ear for how to use it. Taste.
Most of the rest of kpop pulls on the same sample files everyone uses and uses them to death, layering and layering because more much be better.
I think it is actually a good song, the boys actually perform it well, but they are let down by what the guys in the booth are doing with drag and drop files.
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I think their group composition fits material more like Co-Star from their album. The melodies aren’t as strong as they could be in that track, but everything happening in the production and vocal department is where I would rather see this group continue to explore.
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Do I like it, or am I annoyed by it? Only time will tell, but I’m willing to listen to its argument.
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How did it age for you? I really like these guys but I think this is a tad too obnoxious to make it into the playlist.
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Well, I’m not adding it to my playlist, either spotify or youtube. I think it could find a place on a workout playlist. It has that kind of boisterous aggression. But I haven’t found it pleasurable.
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