Last week, IU released a music video for Dear My Crazy Soulmate, the b-side to Unknown Planet (별로부터). Now, it’s time for the main course. Those hoping for a little more experimentation will appreciate this one, as the song forgoes Soulmate‘s gentle sound for a synth-powered instrumental that brings the drama.
I’ve always thought IU’s vocals work best set against either a symphonic or synth backdrop. Her tone tends to cut through these robust arrangements, offering a great anchor as ornate instrumentals swirl around her. In some ways, Unknown Planet recalls the more theatrical fare of her past, though it’s still pretty straightforward as a song. In fact, without the production backing it up I’m not sure Unknown Planet would have much appeal to me at all. Its melodies stretch out with a sense of grandeur but struggle to find a structure unique enough to draw attention on their own.
This is where Planet Unknown‘s instrumental comes in. I love the chugging synth that dominates the track. It makes everything around it feel more impactful than it is. The song’s final flourish is particularly galvanizing, as if we’re being lifted into space ready for some grand adventure. I’d love to hear IU develop this sound further with more compelling songwriting to match.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8 |
Grade: B-
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
This melodic synth track suits her, and her voice sounds nice over the beat. The spacey feel is present throughout the track as it grows and uses nice layering. Yes, she does sound a little constrained here and there but never in a way that takes you out of the song. Her high notes towards the end closely off the song nicely as well. It’s as if Shinee’s Atmos had a quiet, reserved little sister who ventured off into space!
8.5 (8,9,8,9)
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Another song lifted by smart synth choices. The big fat white noise distortion is everything. If it had been a plinky-plunky guitar, it still would be very IU but it wouldn’t sound nearly as cool, it would be another coffee shop.
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It’s really cool that this far into her career IU is still making different choices and experimenting with her sound. I appreciate her more and more with time for this reason.
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IU may not always impress me, but rarely disappoints.
I initially liked this one, then when listening in the open speakers on hated the chugging synth, found it disruptive, but then again listening with headphones one – they melded nicely and enjoyed it,
Will need few more listens I guess.
Lyrically she is impeccable even in translation, and thematically always intriguing
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This is IU’s best song in years, the spacey synths really contrast well with her vocal delivery, generating a nostalgic feel that’s different from any of her other material but still recognizably IU. Nice lyrics too, starting with the pun in the title, really capturing the bittersweet emotions from her breakup. Probably an 8.75 or 9.
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