Song Review: Xikers – We Don’t Stop

It took me some time to come around to xikers’ sound, but their second mini album — and particularly the raucous energy of title track Do Or Die — made me a convert. As with any group debuting in the shadow of an ultra-famous agency senior, they’re at their best when blazing their own musical path.

New title track We Don’t Stop maintains the punky, rap-rock style of previous releases, but it’s not as focused as it should be. In fact, it’s the type of song that gets less interesting as it goes on. The opening verse, delivered with fiery speed and character, is a total blast. The guys are practically fused with the beat, nimbly parkouring their way through its guitar-assisted assault. It’s extremely funky and had me thrilled for what might come next.

Unfortunately, We Don’t Stop loses much of this momentum with a so-so chorus and a second verse colored with effects-heavy production that doesn’t pack the same punch. A ferocious bridge rekindles some of this energy, but those heavy-handed vocal effects strike again to rob the guys of their natural character. The song concludes with a 90’s hip-hop breakdown that feels pulled from a different song entirely. In short, We Don’t Stop is all over the place. This grab bag approach can be exciting and unpredictable, but not when some of the elements are so much stronger than others. Still, even though the structure isn’t working for me there are plenty of cool textures driving this track.

Hooks 8 Production 8 Longevity 8 Bias 8 RATING 8

Grade: B-

Original Article