Song Review: 2PM – Make It

One of 2021’s most welcome trends has been the resurgence of classic second-gen groups. Whether this comes via rediscovery of old tracks or the embrace of new comebacks, it’s gratifying to see these established acts get their due.

The latest group to make a long-awaited return is 2PM. Make It (해야 해) arrives almost five years since their last comeback. That’s nearly as long as the typical idol contract! The guys’ 2015 hit My House has enjoyed a resurgence over the past year or so, and Make It seeks to follow in its smooth, seductive footsteps. But, five-year hiatuses tend to send expectations skyrocketing and I don’t think this song measures up.

I can clearly hear what the group were hoping to get out of Make It. It’s got a similar groove to My House, while saving room for the kind of bass-driven, drop-style chorus that’s all the rage this year. But, the track feels surprisingly dull. It lacks a sense of dynamics, coming across as little more than an enjoyable groove. And without a hooky melody in sight, there’s not much to latch onto. The chorus is downright boring, offering a flat refrain that never builds to any climax. And while I appreciate the sprinkling of keys throughout the instrumental, the track is so inoffensive that it borders on characterless. I’m honestly shocked at how safe 2PM played this.

In the end, the guys’ engaging personalities and performance drags Make It over the finish line, but goodwill and legacy can only carry you so far. You’ve got to have the tunes as well!

Hooks 7 Production 7 Longevity 8 Bias 7 RATING 7.25 Original Article