Rookie boy group Trendz are the latest to return with material originally scheduled for October. Thus far, the guys haven’t done much to land on my radar, though June’s Who improved with time. I appreciate when they lean heavily into rock guitar, and new single Vagabond leverages this strength. But, the song is not without its concessions. Like the majority of boy groups these days, NCT’s shadow looms large over the music.

Like ICHILLIN’s comeback (also released today), the first few moments of Vagabond are rough. If I never have to hear K-pop boys shouting over a blustery beat again, I’ll be content with life. Of course, that’s never going to happen given the industry’s narrow definition of a “badass” concept. But if we remove that chanted hook from the track, we’re left with a competent idol rocker. Vagabond’s verses are pleasantly melodic, and when they veer into rap toward the middle of the song it’s well-suited to the blazing beat.

Better yet, Vagabond bolsters its chant with a genuine chorus. This segment doesn’t come around often enough, but it gives a thrilling peek at Trendz’s full potential. The vocals are strong, offering a convincing take on the tried-and-true “powerful” concept. I love the arrangement here. The voices are stacked to the high heavens in a classic K-pop style. This becomes even more appealing at Vagabond’s climax, where the guys deliver a killer power note. There’s some melodic murk and plenty of needless posturing to wade through, but overall this comeback is a promising step in the right direction.

Grade: B