Any time I write about a Sistar member releasing new music, it’s only natural to lament the absence of one of K-pop’s strongest girl groups. That’s not fair to the members and I’m sure they’re eager to put past history behind and develop their own artistry, but when you come from a group with as legendary a run as Sistar, comparisons are only natural. It’s no surprise that my favorite work from its soloists sounds as if it could be delivered by the group as well.

Soyou has released a couple of Sistar-style bangers in the past, but she’s moved on to something very different with new single Girl. The tempo is far more downbeat here. Atmospheric production shines spotlight on her vocals as the percussion plods along. Moments of distorted guitar fracture the arrangement, but never enough to fully transform this into a rock song. Instead, Girl passes by without a ton of sonic interest, leaning more heavily on its message and restrained performance. I find it pretty flat overall, but I understand why Soyou would want to release something so different.

Grade: C-