It’s been gratifying to watch DKZ’s (formerly Dongkiz) glow-up. Their ascent has nothing to do with the quality of their music and everything to do with member Jaechan’s sudden popularity as an actor. But, that’s just how the K-pop industry works. However they needed to do it, I’m happy DKZ have found success. But, I’d be even happier if this success came paired with a fantastic song.

This spring’s Cupid was a grower, buoyed by a rollicking chorus that screamed summer. But, the group’s agency couldn’t leave well enough alone and decided to drastically shift concepts for new single Uh-Heung (호랑이가쫓아온다). I guess we can’t just let bright boys be bright!

K-pop history is littered with successful transformations, and during Uh-Heung’s first verse it seems as if DKZ might pull this one off. Its propulsive beat and sexy guitar make a satisfying brew, heightening a sense of melodic drive. Then, things get messy.

From here, Uh-Heung plays like a master class in “how to ruin a perfectly good track.” The producers have attempted a huge hype song in the vein of Stray Kids, Seventeen or BTS. But, Uh-Heung devolves into boisterous shouting with no form or purpose. It’s obnoxious and borderline amelodic. The mixing is terrible. Even the sung pre-chorus is pitched at a grating level, as the pots-and-pans instrumental undoes all potential from verse one. It feels weirdly cheap, especially compared to a track like Stray Kid’s Miroh (an obvious inspiration). Uh-Heung may be bursting with energy, but it’s hard to get through and spits in the face of the group’s excellent debut-year work.