Song Review: ALEXA Makes A Completely Different Comeback With "Xtra" And BRAVE GIRLS Release New MV For "Pool Party"

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AleXa (알렉사) – Xtra (with BM of KARD) 

Mini Bio

AleXa released her first single album today July 1, 2021, titled "ReviveR" with the song "Xtra" serving as the the album's title track. The single will contain three tracks and will get a physical release on a CD. This single is the follow-up to her fourth digital single "Never Let You Go" which was released on January 14, 2021. 

Review 

This song marks a completely different change of concept and direction from her previous Sci-Fi epics. This time she chose a nostalgic bubblegum pop sound  with groovy horns conveying a funky vibe that’s perfect for summer. BM of the co-ed group KARD makes a cameo appearance as a dancer in the music video. AleXa's new single, Xtra, showcases her talent and charisma, but lacks personality. 

"Xtra" embraces nostalgia through old school breakbeats and a groovy hip-hop base, a sound palette K-pop has used before. However, the songwriters inject eye-rolling English lyrics, making the song feel like parody. The song's energy is not fully realized, and the squeaky refrain and instrumental go down easy. The song builds towards a satisfying chorus, but could benefit from more funky melody and a more engaging chorus. 

Track List 

  1. "Xtra"
  2. "Obsession"
  3. "Xtra (Inst.)" 

Brave Girls - Pool Party (Feat. E-CHAN of DKB) 

Brave Girls released a new music video today June 1, 2021, for the song "Pool Party" from their latest, fifth mini album "Summer Queen". The mini album was released on June 17, 2021. 

Review 

"Summer Queen" features several great b-sides, including "Chi Mat Ba Ram", "Pool Party" and "Fever". The album is designed to cater to the season, with each track being targeted. "Pool Party", a derivative K-pop summer trope, is fun and frothy with a big breakbeat and synths. The song was teased as the album's title track, but it was ultimately chosen over "Chi Mat Ba Ram", which is more complex and improves with each listen. "Pool Party" could also be a fun MV for the album and promote Brave Brothers' boy group DKB, featuring E-Chan as a guest rapper. Overall, the album offers a great experience for fans of K-pop summer tropes. 




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