“Countless” Number of Reasons to Love SHINee’s New Single

This year has definitely been a heck of a ride for SHINee. Not only did they have to go through the loss of fellow member Jonghyun, one of the toughest things a tight-knit group, or human being for that matter, could endure, they also had the whole world watching them go through it. Apart from that, 2018 also marked the year that the group reached their 10th anniversary milestone. This initiated the release of not one, not two, but three EPs, all falling under the title The Story of Light. They took us on a range of emotions with title tracks “Good Evening,” “I Want You,” and “Our Page.” With mouthwatering visuals, on point sets, and a whole lot of poise, the boys definitely fed us well this year and managed to begin mending the hole a lot of us were left behind with. Just when we thought they couldn’t surpass the high bar they set for themselves, the legendary group returned to put the finishing touch on their powerful EP trilogy with “Countless.” That’s right, SHINee’s back.

SHINee’s ability to take something that seems basic and overdone and turn it into a masterpiece with their own, unique colors once again shines through the group’s latest release. “Countless” is all about the worth of the people around you and the boundless love carried for them. The song starts off with a gentle guitar riff before the beat smoothly layers on to give the song just the right amount of a kick without taking it in the direction of a dance track. As pioneers of the K-Pop music industry, this song reveals more of the relaxed maturity the group has acquired over the years. Without any dramatic drops or typical high notes (except for one beautifully timed by Taemin), the song stays at a delicious consistent pace. The beauty of SHINee is their ability to completely put their soul into the lyrics that they sing, and with the lack of flashy dance moves or vocals, this truly shows through the track. The tropical house beat does not take away from the relaxing, soothing vibe of the song and makes it feel very much like a final curtain call.

The ease and simplicity of the track is reflected in the understated yet overflowing aesthetic of the music video. The whole music video takes place in one set that transforms into a different visual aesthetic for each member. Without any dance routines or complicated storyline, the members are able to bring out the melancholic and refreshing vibe of the track visually. The lyrics and meaning of the song are delivered with subtle confidence, with cute little transitions between the members parts to create an effortless flow. Each member brings forward their own personality and it just makes the whole music video so adorable and so very Shinee-esque!

This whole project of EP releases has taken many, myself included, on quite an emotional journey. It feels like only yesterday that they gripped the attention of onlookers with “Replay,” and simply put, to see how far they’ve come is heartwarming. They’ve pulled through times filled with happiness and sorrow and gone from aspiring young musicians to stand as highly accredited artists and inspirations. There was no better way to establish their status as reigning kings of the music industry than with the release of The Story of Light, an album that truly showcases their ability to paint a range of emotions and their skills as well-rounded artists. “Countless” feels like the perfect end to the venture SHINee has taken this year. In case it wasn’t obvious before, the group has only further solidified their place as one that has truly aged well musically. The diversity of the tracks reel in a range of music listeners and truly showcases the magic of SHINee’s versatility as singers. With this track only further solidifying this opinion and status as true idols, SHINee always has a special place in our hearts and will always continue to shine.