Album Overview
I might be a bit late with this review of ATEEZ’s latest album, “Golden Hour: Part. 1.” However, this delay has allowed me to fully immerse myself in the album and appreciate its intricate details. Released on May 31, 2024, this album marks a significant milestone for ATEEZ, showcasing their continuous evolution and versatility as artists. “Golden Hour: Part. 1” is ATEEZ’s 10th mini-album and features six tracks that explore a variety of musical styles and themes, reflecting the group’s ability to blend different genres.
Golden Hour
The album opens with a spoken narration by MADDOX, a longtime collaborator of ATEEZ. This track sets a reflective tone by highlighting the transient nature of life’s most radiant moments. The narration encourages listeners to ponder what the “golden hour” means to them, whether it’s cherishing past memories or looking forward to future possibilities. The soft, melodic harmonies add a comforting and poetic touch to this opening piece.
Blind
“Blind” is filled with burning passion and energy, making it impossible to ignore. Tapping into Latin pop influences, the song features Cuban trumpets and harmonica, elements not commonly heard in K-pop. The phrase “el amor es ciego” (love is blind) is passionately sung throughout the track. The energetic and vibrant feel of the song, with its celebratory and passionate vibes, makes it a standout on the album. The members’ versatility is showcased in their seamless blend of sultry pre-choruses and bold outros.
Work
The title track “Work” delves into themes of hard work and success, with lyrics emphasizing the importance of diligence. While the mid-tempo hip-hop track aims to convey a strong message, it lacks the dynamic variation needed to maintain interest throughout. The song’s short runtime and repetitive hook may not fully capture the energy typically associated with ATEEZ’s title tracks. Despite its shortcomings, “Work” represents a different direction for the group, moving away from their more bombastic previous works.
Empty Box
“Empty Box” is a soft pop ballad that provides a serene interlude in the album. The song deals with the struggle of letting go of past memories to move forward and create new beginnings. It stands out as a calming and nostalgic track, offering a comforting hug with its soothing melody. The vocal performances are emotional and breathy, adding depth to the song’s reflective message. While it may seem out of place amidst more high-energy tracks, it adds a necessary emotional layer to the album.
Shaboom
“Shaboom” brings a vibrant and lively atmosphere with its reggae-pop influences. The track’s laid-back verses are contrasted with an electronic, high-energy chorus, keeping listeners on their toes. The mix of genres and the abrupt transitions might be jarring for some, but it exemplifies ATEEZ’s ability to create engaging and dynamic music. The track is filled with infectious energy, making it a perfect party anthem that stands out on the album.
Siren
Closing the album is “Siren,” a powerful rap track that exudes confidence and determination. The lyrics reflect ATEEZ’s resilience and unwavering path, with references to their natural talent and strong work ethic. The heavy trap production and buzzing sounds create a chaotic yet compelling atmosphere. The song’s bridge, featuring a build-up to a climactic chorus, leaves a lasting impression, making “Siren” a fitting conclusion to the album.
Full Crew
The talented team behind “Golden Hour: Part. 1” includes:
- Hongjoong: Leader, Composer, Lyricist
- Seonghwa: Vocalist
- Yunho: Vocalist, Choreographer
- Yeosang: Vocalist, Visual
- San: Lead Vocalist
- Mingi: Rapper, Lyricist
- Wooyoung: Main Dancer, Vocalist
- Jongho: Main Vocalist
Final Words
ATEEZ’s “Golden Hour: Part. 1” is a stellar addition to their discography, showcasing their ability to experiment with different genres while staying true to their artistic identity. The album’s diverse tracks and thought-provoking themes make it a standout release in the K-pop scene. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to ATEEZ, this album is a must-listen.
Stream “Golden Hour: Part. 1” on your preferred platform and experience the vibrant and dynamic world of ATEEZ.
