A&R teams are the unsung powerhouses of K-pop and in my mind Woollim Entertainment had the best, most consistent ear for picking great songs. That’s one of the reasons it’s been so depressing to watch the agency fold into obscurity. I’m still not certain they’re equipped to make a full comeback, but today we’ve got a rare Woollim Entertainment release courtesy of DRIPPIN’s first sub-unit ChaDongHyeop.

DRIPPIN are the only group left with the agency and a stint on Boys II Planet last year didn’t seem to spark the resurgence Woollim was hoping for. Doogeundae‘s (두근대) release is probably too little, too late to capitalize on whatever hype existed, but I’ll happily take it anyway — budget music video and all. This is a bright burst of synth-fueled pop music, bounding along a catchy riff and maintaining a high energy throughout. Its post-chorus has been teased for weeks now, but I’m pleased that there’s a stronger chorus preceding that hook.

Doogeundae doesn’t do anything particularly thrilling, but within the confines of its sub-genre it never puts a foot wrong. I’m charmed by the verses, which have a buoyant summertime feel that echoes many of my favorite tracks of the season. I’ll always enjoy colorful rap verses over a bounding dance beat, and ChaDongHyeop are happy to oblige. There’s no too-cool-for-school posturing here. Doogeundae is just pure fun, through and through.

Grade: B