Each time Stray Kids release a new album, they tend to film music videos for multiple tracks. As my interest in their music has waned over time, I haven’t always written about these follow up songs — especially now that I have a weekly post where I can spotlight any notable b-sides. Album opener BLEEP (삐처리) was not among those spotlighted b-sides, though it seems to be a favorite of many fans.
By now, you all know that one of my least favorite aspects about Stray Kids’ songs is their reliance on novelty and schtick. This is not unique to them, but it’s an approach that rarely sits well with me because it usually feels forced. As its title suggests, BLEEP is built around the censoring of sound. It’s not as gimmicky as it could be, but still feels like an idea first and a song second.
The track unfolds over a stomping rock beat that pulls back to a moodier soundscape during the pre-chorus. The chorus is largely chanted with a catchy little melodic flourish to close it off. However, most of BLEEP sounds exactly like you’d expect from a Stray Kids song. The energy is more robust than Ceremony, but the melodic turns are predictable and flat. It all works just fine. It just doesn’t stick out within their discography.
| Hooks | 7 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
