Treasure haven’t released much new material this year, but 2026 marked a transition into a much tougher hip-hop sound. Despite June’s If I leaving me cold at first, the song eventually won me over with its off-kilter hooks. Judging from the previews of new single Shock, I was unsure if this track could do the same. And after hearing the full thing, I’m selfishly wishing Treasure would rediscover their lighter, more melodic side.
Shock includes a brief interpolation of 1TYM’s 1st-gen mega-hit Hot. This is its most endearing moment, yet lasts only a few seconds. Much of the track is dominated instead by its gruff, shouted chorus. Honestly, if the producers had found a completely different centerpiece, Shock could be quite effective. The verses have a nice bounce and the guys employ the technique that ultimately made If I so addictive — an unexpected jolt of electro scuzz that breaks up the monotony of the central hook.
Sadly, these fun touches aren’t enough to salvage Shock’s more headache-inducing moments. The song becomes particularly overbearing in its final stretch, devolving into a “who can shout the loudest” climax that forgets how sound and fury is only effective if doled out strategically as part of a diverse palette that lets a song’s climactic moments stand out rather than beat you into submission.
| Hooks | 6 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 7 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7 |
Grade: C-
There are some textures in the production that I love (like the little synths in the background of the verses and chorus) but the chorus is a headache.
7 (6, 7, 8, 7) for me. I sense that this song might be elevated by the live performances as with every Treasure song.
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Honestly, this one is quite challenging to listen to. The chorus in particular relies on full-on intense shouting, following a trend seen among many of their peers, and the lyrics feel rather puzzling (I’m really not sure what they mean by “trimmin'”). If you want to hear a truly incredible track called “Shock,” look no further than my boys in BEAST (HIGHLIGHT)! It feels a bit disappointing to see that iconic title referenced here without delivering the same level of polish and impact.
Even so, I know every artist puts effort into their work, and I hold onto hope that their next project will showcase their talents in a much brighter light.
7
https://youtu.be/JXxGo1MvNls?si=PieUwDIizsqYLqCZ
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ALL(H)OURS Shock is also very good!
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Just when we think kpop has moved past shouty dark theme boy band songs, this song arrives today.
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The noise pollution from YG is out of control. I dread listening to songs from them and associated acts these days. I just sample a bit of the chorus to check for the rare banger, then I’M OUT!
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Oh man I fear this track is quite unpalatable to me. I am not much a fan of hip-hop sounds, but I actually quite like their previous mini-album. This song, however, is just too much of ear pollution to me as I almost got a headache listening to this abomination. I am very sorry to say these but it just sounded like a bunch of apes had a very good times together in a rambunctious party by screaming at each other and competing who was more boisterous than others.
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If I grew on me due to the performance but I’m not sure about this one. Also like with If I, I feel like this would have been better as a rapline b-side and they should have released something that gave their vocalists more to do. The only thing I find aurally interesting is the little bzzzt sound effect in the chorus.
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