Review

Song Review: NXON – Ride Or Die

NXON is a new supergroup made up of the acts APEX and AWIN, which makes me feel a little crazy because I’m not familiar with either of those groups. However, when I hear something I enjoy (which happens too infrequently these days!) I want to share.

The guys have released both Japanese and Korean versions of Ride Or Die and its b-side, but seem to be promoting in Japan at the moment so the music video is in support of the Japanese version. K-pop fans will find their greatest connection through one of the song’s composers: Inner Child of Monotree. And as predicted from that caliber of talent, the track is a banger.

Ride Or Die doesn’t last much more than two-and-a-half minutes, but it kicks off at an “11” and never lets up. It does a nice job merging predictable K-pop/J-pop song structure with a rough-and-ready production that gives the song real grit. This unpolished feel can sometimes be a bit grating, but adds to the unfettered energy coursing through the track. A cliched second-verse switch-up is unfortunate, but other than that Ride Or Die has its foot firmly on the pedal and is anchored by a strong, anthemic chorus. The accompanying b-side is also solid, making me interested to see how NXON will develop from here.

Hooks 8
 Production 8
 Longevity 9
 Bias 9
 RATING 8.5

Grade: B

3 thoughts on “Song Review: NXON – Ride Or Die

  1. Its true the track was bursting with energy from the start and did not let up until the end. A banger from less known group was always welcomed. The bridging rap parts was so thriling and the vocals was serving so much that I did not get any chance to be bored at all . The rock elements used in the production is just chef’s kiss. Gonna check the rest of the track in the EP later.

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  2. (I am old , so I can’t unsee pronouncing it as “Nixon” which is an interesting choice.)

    Another song which gets the energy right. Thank heavens. Kpop song people, listen to this and learn how it is done, please.

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  3. omg!! i’m so glad my uncs came out with a banger to start the NXON project off well, they’ve been through a lot T_T

    i hope they stick with this wild style ’cause it would only make sense for the AWIN members.

    speaking of which! idk if you’d remember (since it’s been forever), but jo minjae used to be the leader of SPECTRUM!! i’m so glad to see him back after such a long journey

    anyway, thank you again for shouting them out!! 😀

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