They came back once with “Fancy,” and now they’re back a second time with another chart-topping hit! Only five months have passed and TWICE has already returned with their eighth extended play titled “I Feel Special,” with all of the members taking an active part in the songwriting process for their five B-sides. One track in particular titled “21:29” is credited as having every member participate in writing the lyrics, which makes this comeback feel so much more special than their last comeback. If the Japanese singles were what you preferred, don’t lose hope, as there’s also a Korean version of “Breakthrough” as an additional track for the fans who just couldn’t get enough!

THE REVIEW

TWICE is a group that hits everyone two times: once through the ears, and again through the heart. It’s safe to say that this comeback definitely delivers on the latter, with inspiring lyrics about friendship written by Park Jinyoung himself! Not only does it tackle feelings of isolation and worthlessness, but it almost serves as a reminder that just talking to someone could have a significant impact on their day. People need to feel loved, whether it’s through friends, family, or having a partner to call their own. The lyrics are so beautifully crafted that this song can apply to anyone regardless of their relationship. Especially with Mina’s ongoing struggles with anxiety and the growing mental health concerns within the industry, there is no better time for the nation’s girl group to promote self-love and happiness. Not only does it stray from the conventional love songs TWICE has produced in the past, but it adds a special touch to the K-Pop industry that will likely be staying for a long time.

The song itself is captivating in its own way. While the genre more closely resembles an electronic tropical house with some dance and funk thrown in, TWICE still manages to make their mark and turn it into a song of their own. The line distribution especially sounds just right⁠—even if it doesn’t seem fair at first glance, there’s no denying that every member sings in a way that makes them perfect for the parts they perform. From Momo and Tzuyu leading the pre-chorus with flair to Jeongyeon’s beautiful addition to the second chorus, there’s no member that seems out of place. Everyone belongs and everyone is loved, which is the message the song is trying to display.

The choreography is a significant step up from what ONCEs are used to. Ever since “What is Love?” dropped, the members have stepped up their choreography with each comeback⁠—and it’s safe to say that “Feel Special” marks the end of TWICE’s days where the dance routine could be learned just by watching their practice videos a few times. It’s a welcomed change, especially with the skillful camerawork used throughout the video. When both of these aspects are combined, the choreography seems to be on a whole new level from what it used to be! Unfortunately, Jihyo’s neck stiffened during their practice and she now has to perform the showcase sitting down, and with Mina’s absence TWICE just won’t feel as complete.

If there’s one thing that can be said about the music video, it’s that the amount of shine and sparkle is enough to blind even the most devoted fan. Not only is there Nayeon wearing enough jewels to afford a lifetime supply of lightsticks, but the members’ outfits for the chorus are absolutely covered in glitter! The backgrounds are just as glittery, too, with golden glitter decking out the stage behind TWICE while they become embodied in happiness. We’re definitely not complaining though, as the glitz and glam is a look that TWICE pulls off perfectly. Of course, there would be no point in mentioning the outfits without talking about Tzuyu’s stunning dress and gorgeous headpiece, with both of these transforming Tzuyu into a floral goddess of composure and beauty. We don’t even need to mention that she holds the visual position in the group because her look in this video speaks for us.

The core message of “Feel Special” is more than that of a conventional love song. It’s a message of love, laughter, loneliness, and just how uplifting it can be to have someone by your side. Even within the video, each member finds someone that makes them feel special, just as everyone deserves to feel that way. It’s a song of connection, made all the more beautiful by the members who are less than a month away from celebrating four years of memories, four years of rising to the top, and most importantly, four years of love.