Album Review #3: Don't Call Me (SHINee)
Updated: 2 days ago
This series explores the most critical aspect of an artist's work- a full studio album!
For this series, I review studio albums that deserve a score from 8.5-10 (out of 10). These are my opinions, so don't expect anything factual.
An album must have at least eight songs to qualify for this series. Finally, if an album went through repackaging and delivered new songs, I won't count those songs in the review.
Track 1: Don't Call Me
Despite not being one of my favorite SHINee singles, this hip-hop-oriented comeback is kept alive by the group's captivating performance and solid instrumental.
Fortunately, things get better for this triumphant return.
Track 2: Heart Attack
Underneath the title track is an album filled with some great b-sides.
Heart Attack is among the first, bringing back the classic SHINee sound with its irresistibly funky, synth-driven composition and catchy chorus.
Track 3: Marry You
Marry You stumbles a bit in the instrumental department, but the vocal harmonies are enough to gain admiration for this track.
For instance, listen to them sing "I wanna marry you" in unison - they sound amazing!
Track 4: CØDE
Everything about CØDE is magnificent! The hurtling bass, the alluring vocals, and the icy post-chorus synthesizer gave this song its distinct and satisfying atmosphere.
You can't deny how sharp the production is!
Track 5: I Really Want You
If I have to choose my favorite track from this album, it has to be I Really Want You. It's similar to Heart Attack, but I slightly prefer this because the chorus payoff is immense!
After the first 30 seconds, the track drops an exciting, celebratory, brass-assisted hook, causing curiosity as to why this wasn't the lead single in the first place - it's a total jam!
Track 6: Kiss Kiss
Kiss Kiss is relatively simple compared to Heart Attack and I Really Want You. However, this funk-driven song is another album treasure. Even the kissing sounds didn't ruin this catchy b-side!
Bonus points are earned for the outstanding post-chorus harmonies!
Track 7: Body Rhythm
This reggae-influenced track is an odd addition to this album.
I'm not a huge fan of Body Rhythm, but SHINee made sure it didn't go to waste by pitching engaging vocal melodies within a solid soundscape.
Track 8: Attention
Attention is a laidback song with a nice groove to it. However, it could've been better if it had the idea of sounding more explosive.
Track 9: Kind
Kind operates as a typical pop ballad album closer, which isn't a bad thing by all means. I'm not a sucker for this composition, yet SHINee knows how to elevate a song like this.
Through nine tracks, the group reminds us that K-pop isn't complete without them!
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
My Top 3 Favorites: I Really Want You, Heart Attack, CØDE