Upon reviewing XG’s Shooting Star, multiple readers commented on the merits of its coupling track Left Right. Not being a huge fan of the group’s music thus far, I didn’t check out the b-side. But, now that Left Right has its own music video it’s time to see what all the fuss is about. I heard rumblings that this song hearkens back to elements of early-00’s pop music and that’s totally my jam.
Before writing about the music itself, I have to mention that the opening of the video is totally Backstreet Boys Larger Than Life level CGI I love that for them. But beyond the cool visuals, I’m still looking for the XG song that officially converts me into a fan. Shooting Star is proving to be a grower and this may as well, but overall the energy feels too flat to truly pull me in. I can hear the early-mid 2000’s R&B influence, but the melodic hooks aren’t as catchy as the best music from that era. And, the production feels more generic than… say… a Timbaland or She’kspere beat might. In short, I appreciate the approach but I’m craving a more engaging product.
On the plus side, Left Right feels like the ideal track to stream on repeat for hours upon hours as you go about the business of your day. It’s unobtrusive and pleasant, casting a laidback energy that will get your head nodding without being too much of a distraction. And since that’s such a large facet of pop music’s purpose in this day and age, I can definitely see the appeal.
Hooks 7 Production 8 Longevity 8 Bias 8 RATING 7.75
