JYP Entertainment’s first girl group since the debut of TWICE has arrived on the scene! Anticipation has been building for ITZY’s debut since members began to be announced, especially with the promised debut of monster rookie Ryujin, who starred alongside j-hope in the BTS Love Yourself highlight reel films and came in first place in the girls category of MIXNINE. The group has already broken records, becoming the most-viewed group debut music video in 24 hours.

“Dalla Dalla”

Even from the teasers, it became clear immediately that the theme of this comeback would be brazen and assertive. The heavy EDM track, metallic visual themes, and self confident message are reminiscent of 2NE1’s “I Am the Best,” bringing a wave of nostalgia to long-time girl group fans. The song definitely has an addicting hook that gets stuck in your head, whether you want it to or not. The rap verse and breakdown during that portion has the biggest impact and would, at least in my opinion, make the song even better if that had been the main musical theme of the song. The lyrics are particularly charming, especially at the dance breakdown toward the end of the song when the girls sing, “keep your chin up / we got your back / keep your head up / just keep on dreaming.”

The concept follows the latest trend for girl groups, a charismatic release highlighting the importance of self-confidence, and we’re totally here for it. The message is incredibly similar to CLC’s latest track “No,” which could also explain the apparent success of the single thus far. The video setting seems to take place in an airport, which is quite an eccentric choice in general, but also since it doesn’t really have anything to do with the concept whatsoever. Still, the otherworldly use of colors and bright patterns makes for an exciting and somehow fitting atmosphere for the eclectic song. The girls also have quite a talent for dancing, and the choreography makes for a different feel and pulls together all the differing elements perfectly.

While all the individual elements of this song by themselves may not be spectacular, ITZY does a stellar job of molding them together for a perfectly catchy and interesting release. The attention this group has received upon debut is likely due to their Big 3 agency, but “Dalla Dalla” shouldn’t be written off as not worthy just because of that.

The Album

ITZY has debuted with a single album, containing the title track and one B-side, “Want it?” The track is distinctly different from the title, with more of an early 2000s, alternative-pop feel to the melody. The rhythm guitar is the most prominent feature of the melody and stands out even more because it’s so different from the EDM influence in “Dalla Dalla.” The vocal portions still have the same high energy as the title, possibly even a higher level of vivacity as the tempo is slightly faster.

All in all, the concept ITZY debuted with is fantastic. It is that concept and the excellent videography that really makes this debut stand out in comparison to the musical aspects. The group, though, is still new, so they will likely grow into even better musicians in the future.