Song Review: The Boyz – Drink It

Up to this point, music released through the Universe app has felt extraneous to an artist’s discography, making its restricted music videos less frustrating. Still, I’m surprised by just how much content this platform is churning out. Whoever’s funding this launch seems to have an unlimited budget, releasing glossy videos almost every week. The latest on the docket is Drink It from The Boyz, who will be making their full comeback sometime next month. For now, this is their first new music since last September.

Drink it is the strongest Universe-related track yet, though I guess that’s faint praise. Much of the song’s appeal can be found under its hood. Looking at the production/composition team, I was surprised to see Park Chella Kim listed as co-writer. Known for his blues-meets-hip-hop guitar sound, he’s not the type of artist to usually work with an idol group. This unexpected pairing helps make Drink It feel fresh. It also puts the song’s striking band sound in context.

Drink It bounds along a confident beat, coming across as a dance pop version of a storming rock track. In this way, its energy reminds me of Infinite’s 2014 Japanese single Dilemma – only with less guitar. Both songs share a commanding presence – dark, but never mopey or dull. Much of this energy is found within Drink It’s lively percussion, which keeps a steady groove while slamming in here and there to accent the group’s vocals. The two-part chorus echoes the frame set up by this instrumental, hitting hard while making room for a smooth vocal performance. The second verse rap compliments this brew, maintaining momentum as we stomp toward Drink It’s climax. I think the whole thing could stand to go even more over-the-top, but this is still a pleasant surprise.

Hooks 9 Production 9 Longevity 8 Bias 8 RATING 8.5

Original Article