Seventeen BSS made their sub-unit debut all the way back in early 2018 with a fun, goofy pop-rock track. At that point, Seventeen were still on the rise – coming off fantastic singles Don’t Wanna Cry and Clap and about to make their Japanese debut with the also-incredible Call Call Call. Five years later and the group has conquered the industry. By now, we’re all very accustomed to the Seventeen sound, making Fighting (파이팅 해야지) more of a victory lap than an evolution.

I’m always up for a good cheer song. K-pop could benefit from leaning further in this direction – less “I’m the best”-type comebacks and more “you can do it!”-style anthems. And during an utterly barren stretch of time for the industry, Fighting arrives as a welcome jolt of energy. It’s hard to dislike a track with its heart in the right place. But at the same time, Fighting is more pleasant than revelatory. It’s performed and produced well and borrows liberally from the funkier side of Seventeen’s oeuvre. Its energy is infectious. I just wish it hinged on melodies that felt equally as exciting.

Yep, it’s me complaining about melody again. Fighting’s chorus is catchy but a little flat. Ditto for the verses, which chug along without landing any sucker punches. They feel conversational in nature, drawing upon K-pop’s dreaded sing-talk too often. The trio’s natural charisma elevates the experience, but there aren’t enough moments to sing along to. Lee Youngji’s rap verse is well-placed during the bridge, even if this slower sequence lasts too long. As a whole, the track has a slightness that borders on novelty. Thankfully, its upbeat and cheerful nature goes a long way toward smoothing over those criticisms.

Grade: B