Onew’s prolific streak as a solo artist continues with another mini album. His solo work has largely shifted between ballads and quirky (but subdued) dance tracks. New single Tough Love splits the difference, moving between moments of vocal heft and jagged electronic breakdowns.
At the very least, this music is more interesting than what most solo idols are offering. It feels like a realistic version of an inspirational anthem, boasting a positive message but adding a bit of sonic cynicism with the off-kilter production. It’s one of those songs I’m more likely to admire than enjoy, as it feels somewhat unfinished and difficult to wrap your arms around. I’m also not a huge fan of instrumentals that belabor this plodding, lurching tempo. However, it’s nice to hear Onew stretch his artistry with a sound he’s never quite tackled before.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
Grade: C+
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
This … just doesn’t work. The two halves of verse and chorus just don’t fit together.
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Just like Mymagoogle commented the other day, why are we getting more Imagine Dragons inspired songs? This sounds very similar to Thunder albeit better but still not my type of music. I’m hoping that Onew will pull another Circle.
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Yes!!! I want another Circle. To this date, Circle was his best album, in my opinion. All of the songs were perfect on it.
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Agreed on Circle!! That album was easily in my top 3 most played the year it was released.
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I think this is fun, and unexpected? My main complain is that it needed at least 30 more seconds of something, not sure what, but as it is, it feels like half a song.
The switch up reminds me of a subdued Eternally by TxT. I still remember the fist time I listened to that song and the reaction I had to it. My reaction to this song was not as intense, but my brain did react in a positive way. I’ll say 8/10
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Um, I’ll skip this self-help volume.
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Since attending his concert last year, I am now too cautious to judge his solo output because I was only obsessed with the TT in Circle and enjoyed most of his other songs but not in a particular way, only to attend his concert and get excited at every single word sung, even though he had no instruments, no dancers, just the recorded instrumental and his voice. He barely even danced, he was just that engaging and good. Turns out his songs really shine in the concert environment because he has extremely engaging energy (and his famously stunning voice ofc), it was one of the funniest concerts I have attended! 🤣
so I do feel just OK with this, it is pleasant as always, but I now know I will probably have a blast if I get to see him performing it live.
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Completely agree, I like a lot of his discography but don’t listen too frequently – but in concert I was really impressed also by songs I didn’t love before!
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He transformed songs for me, literally. It is like he unlocked something in my brain and now several are in my playlist that were not there before. Sad that I cannot see him as frequently as many Asian fans can 🫠 I was obviously expecting him to be good, as a SHINee fan I know they deliver, but I was not ready to be blown away. Truly a special performer! Glad you also got to experience him.
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