VAV Goes Dark with “Poison”
Just three months after the release of bright and summery “Give Me More,” VAV is back on the scene with a polar opposite concept. Due to the groups’ most recent comeback trends t, it almost gave us whiplash to see the first teasers of their latest comeback, “Poison.” Though unexpected, it is a welcome change that helps to solidify VAV’s talent and ability to master all types of concepts. “Poison” also has a familiar name penned to its production: PENTAGON’s leader, Hui.
The Title: “Poison”
Strap in, this one is gonna be a wild one. Though the teasers gave us a glimpse of what was to come, nothing could really properly convey the sinister and mysterious aura that would be portrayed by the septet.
At first listen, it’s not difficult to deduce that this is a Hui-produced track. He’s earned quite a reputation having produced for a number of idol groups, so it’s guaranteed that this song is going to be a good one. Beginning with the background setting of a rainy day, with mellow piano transitioning into the main, modern beat–a hip-hop driven yet softer toned melody. The melody remains stagnant through the buildup and drop, with a surprising shift to a heavily EDM influenced rhythm in the chorus. The beautiful piano melody consistent throughout the entire track is absolutely gorgeous, complementing the member’s voices. The rap verses are also placed quite well, highlighted in the buildup to the chorus. Although the EDM edition is a little jarring at first, after multiple listens it blends very well with the overall composition of the song. Musically, it’s quite different from what VAV has released in the past, but that doesn’t make it bad. In fact, as far as composition goes, it may be one of their strongest releases.
The video begins with Ayno in what appears to be a museum, alone, covering his eyes as he counts to seven in Spanish, possibly an homage to their recent success among the Latinx community and concepts often pulling from Latin culture. A cut to each member is shown as he counts down, revealing himself at seven. His hands are adorned with tattoos and and large rings, complimenting his all black outfit and chain necklace, the look is completed with a lip ring and painted black nails, not to mention his dark eyeliner and jet black hair. If you wanted a goth boy, you got one (and we are thankful for it).
The tone of the title track is set immediately by the dark atmosphere and blood red light illuminating the members. The scene shifts to Baron surrounded by foliage, a bright light illuminating his entire figure and highlighting his pink coat and noticeably blush cheeks. Contrasting next is Jacob, who attacks the viewers with an open shirt to reveal his extremely defined abs. Although he’s also in a foliage scene, the light is noticeably darker with a blue tint in contrast to Baron. This theme continues through the video, with obvious shifts between extremely dark scenes and highly lit sets. The use of bright, neon colors among an otherwise monochrome setting add to the intensity of the track’s vibe, the ferocity is only heightened by the deadly gazes of the members. Visually, it is a perfectly executed dark concept, with just the right touch of sexy added into the mix courtesy of Jacob and St.Van. If you’re like me and favor the darker side of K-Pop, you’ll no doubt fall in love with the visuals in “Poison.”
The Album
POISON features five new tracks, though one is just an instrumental of the title, so technically there are only four. After kicking off with the title, the album transitions into the first B-side “119,” a smooth and sensual R&B ballad that evokes a sense of warmth in the soul. VAV doesn’t often release tracks in this genre, so it is quite refreshing, and the members’ vocal timbre fit it well. The track also has a lovely pace to it, with vocal and rap verses spaced out in a very smooth manner. “119” is definitely one of the groups’ best B-side releases to date.
Next comes “Runway,” the style more akin to the usual VAV sound. With a house heavy beat driving the rhythm of the song, it’s fit most appropriately for, well, a runway. “Runway” definitely has a heavy club vibe, a stark contrast to both “Poison” and “119.” Depending on whether this type of melody is your cup of tea, this track will probably be the hit or miss of the album. Concluding the B-sides comes “Sweet Heart,” a classic, light, acoustic love song that may or may not be a tribute to VAMPZ. This track adds yet another musical dimension to the album, presenting the group in a much sweeter and softer light than the previous tracks. It’s a pleasant way to end the album, at least in my opinion.
VAV is a group that has struggled to gain mass media attention for quite awhile now, but their recent breakouts have begun to get their name out there and even given them the opportunity to be nominated for number one on music shows. There’s not a shadow of a doubt that the group is talented, and POISON continues to showcase that with the multi-dimensional aspects of the album. I personally believe that “Poison” is a very strong comeback for the group, in all aspects. Don’t go another day sleeping on this talented group!