There’s been a lot of talk about K-pop’s second generation on this blog lately, but if you really want a taste for what was popular in Korea during the early half of this era you couldn’t ask for more representative artists than Epik High and Davichi. Both have lasted the long run, still releasing music today. And on new single Mise en scène (미장센), they’ve paired together.

Mise en scène is a smart blending of both acts’ appeal. Epik High have plenty of lower-to-mid tempo tracks in their catalog, often finding success with a more sentimental sound. Davichi are most often known for ballads, though they have a few notable bangers to their name as well. Mise en scène splits the difference, framing a ballad-like vocal refrain with bouncy, piano-led production and nimble verses. It’s immensely nostalgic, even if it doesn’t draw anything new out of either artist. I would have preferred a more dynamic chorus, as the track’s centerpiece seems to rely more on Davichi’s appeal than dynamic, memorable songwriting, but those looking for a pleasant blast from the past will likely wrap themselves in Mise en scène like it was a warm blanket.

Grade: C+