Out of curiosity, I went back to see the last time I was genuinely excited about a Stray Kids track (ie: rated it an 8.5 or higher), and that turned out to be all the way back in 2022 with their Mixtape track Time Out (which wasn’t really promoted beyond a music video). Since then, it feels as if the group has solidified their sound and catered almost exclusively to that. This is a brilliant way of feeding fans but makes their output much more frustrating for those of us who haven’t enjoyed this particular brand of Stray Kids music.
I also recognize that I’ve opened so many recent Stray Kids reviews with variations of this same sentiment and that’s as exhausting to read as it is to write. You have my permission to stop here, really. But just because their music hasn’t done much to change my opinion of late doesn’t mean that it can’t ever turn around. Many groups have managed that just this year. Unfortunately, new single Do It is not the one to… well… do it. Here, we have the latest iteration of their oeuvre, softened a bit with more emphasis on groove than schtick.
On its surface, the track echoes the Latin touches of last year’s Chk Chk Boom (a song whose chorus mercilessly popped up on countless YouTube ads for their latest tour) but forgoes the shouting and gun sound effects for a more restrained performance. Nothing about the production stands out, but I like the series of deep rhythms that drive much of the track. Unfortunately, the chorus comes along to spoil things. Modern Stray Kids choruses are often a series of repeated catchphrases, and here we have the “do it, do it, do it” hook coupled with some self-help inspiration for good measure. I know the intention is good and earnest and the world always needs more positive messaging, but it all feels too on the nose for me. Sadly, my search for the true comeback Stray Kids single marches on. Stay tuned for the next episode, I guess.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.5 |
