Girl group KIIRAS made a promising comeback last year with Bang Bang, which showcased their vocal talent. They’ve now returned with another two-syllable title in Ta Ta, but this song finds them in different musical territory. We still hear a few moments of vocal drama, but the bulk of the track is built around rhythmic, sing-song hooks.

A title like “Ta Ta” doesn’t exactly build confidence going in, and the song itself sounds pretty much like you’d expect. It’s a bit cutesy, a bit infantile and quite repetitive. The chorus is catchy, but not in a pleasant way. Not every earworm is built the same, and Ta Ta‘s “we go ta ta” refrain has a sinister way of burrowing into your brain. You’ll remember it right from the start, but might not find it all that enjoyable. To be honest, I’ve never loved this kind of playground-taunt-style hook, much preferring a more timeless melody.

However, this is a type of K-pop we don’t hear that often anymore, and I’m confident it will find its fans. Putting personal preference aside, Ta Ta is a fun, silly pop track that builds upon KIIRAS’s youthful energy. I imagine kids being especially drawn to its colorful, cartoonish hooks.

Grade: C