A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.
There have been plenty of debuting groups who’ve impressed me this year, but most have been instant hits — launching with a standout song or album. KickFlip are different. I still don’t care for most of the material on their debut mini album. Their May follow-up was a bit uneven but much stronger. And now, their third mini gets things very right.
I suppose this rising arc is a good thing, though you can never be too sure if a K-pop act will stick with their concept or quickly veer elsewhere. Whatever the case, there’s plenty to love about My First Flip. My favorite b-side is Crush (특이점). It’s a total stomper, pairing its melodies with percussive force. This approach kicks off right from the beginning and never lets up. Stabs of guitar and synth hit hard, matching the energy of the group. It reminds me of early Seventeen, but also of another “crush” b-side I love dearly. And although the track doesn’t even reach the 2:30 mark, it feels complete and satisfying.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.75 |
