New boy group AM8IC impressed me with their pre-debut Buzzin and its fun, funky riff on Ghostbusters. Now, it’s time for the guys to make their actual debut with their first mini album. Title track Link Up opts for a more reserved energy, borrowing from many familiar 2025 sounds.
Link Up‘s verses are emblematic of the year, borrowing the skittering percussion the K-pop industry has seemingly fallen in love with, ornamented with an orchestral flourish here and there. The beat becomes more resounding during the chorus as the guys perform in falsetto. I’m impressed with their skill, but the melodies don’t do enough to stand out. The song sounds good yet never compels in the way it needs to. The energy remains stuck between upbeat and pensive, unable to lean fully in either direction.
In short, AM8IC were smart to lead with the exciting Buzzin. The purpose here seems to be to establish lore rather than cement an exciting new sound. I know many K-pop fans love that side of the art form, but without a thrilling song to tether the storytelling to, I’m liable to forget Link Up much more quickly than I’d like.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
