Half of the PRISTIN members have returned with a new look and concept as the newly formed sub-unit PRISTIN V. Nayoung, Roa, Rena, Eunwoo, and Kyulkyung are vamped as they branch away from girl-crush, schoolgirl concepts and into a more flirtatious, bold territory.

“Get It” had some high expectations; the music video was set to release on the same day as senior groups AOA and SHINee. Especially after the exciting individual teasers released by Pledis Entertainment, fans became curious about the more mature sound they seemed to be going for. The girls looked beautiful with an attitude to spare. Kyulkyung’s teaser even resembled the instrumental sample used in DPR Live’s single “Jasmine,” a more sensual R&B track. The standard was also set higher as the sub-unit is completely comprised of former Produce 101 trainees and I.O.I members.

It definitely did not disappoint. “Get It” incorporates a more urban Western sound, making it appealing to a broader audience. It could easily pass for a Fifth Harmony or Little Mix track. The song could not come at a more perfect time as we approach summertime. There are hip-hop beats layered under a sweet but sassy melody. Each girl really had the chance to shine vocally, even the rappers. The lyrics are more straightforward (one could say dirtier) than most of PRISTIN’s tracks, reflecting the villainous concept they were going for.

Rena stood out particularly, having more lines than what we’ve seen in previous PRISTIN title tracks. Eunwoo really embodied the sassy attitude the choreography demands. Kyulkyung and Roa added sweetness and a touch of innocence to the vocals while Nayoung, as the oldest, added a bit more sex appeal. It’s the perfect summer song to boost your confidence for a girls’ night out.

“Spotlight”

The accompanying track on the single, “Spotlight,” tackles the summertime sound from a different angle. This track has a more inspirational feel that stems from the ‘80s style instrumental. It has the free-spiritedness of the closing theme song of an ‘80s romance film where the girls drive off into the sunset. The lyrics are encouraging as well, with the girls expressing their fears of the unknown before setting themselves free under their brightly-shining spotlight, which could allude to their own courage or an enlightening moment. It’s a powerful track that complements “Get It.” If “Get It” was too big of a jump in terms of concept, “Spotlight” is suited for fans of the main group looking for a more mature sound.

It may be premature to declare, but PRISTIN V’s debut may be one of the strongest of the year. It’s definitely a contender, and we hope that Pledis will treat them well this comeback era and in the future.