Jeong Sewoon Brings the Retro Summer Flare with “Say yes”
We can always count on Jeong Sewoon to bring the catchy tracks and his latest comeback is no exception. If the long days and endless humidity are bringing you down these days, this latest title is sure to uplift your spirits almost immediately.
The Title: “Say yes”
Kicking off with a soft melody often reminiscent of wintery ballads, “Say yes” takes a quick turn as soon as the rhythm guitar kicks in during the second half of the first verse, bringing along a retro vibe with it. Upon first listen it’s a surprising shift, but there’s no doubt that the retro melody immediately elicits a bright demeanor within the listener which only intensifies as Sewoon belts out the chorus, switching from a softer tone to a more powerful one. The track maintains a groovy feeling throughout, adding to its overall sunny disposition that leaves a smile on your face. Something about it feels like an ice cold sip of water on a blazing hot summer day and it’s incredibly satisfying.
The upbeat tone is amplified by the choice of videography, which features an array of bright pastel colors throughout. The lighting is overly bright to emphasize the sunshine and add a pop to the extensive colors. Sewoon’s demeanor is sunny, and though he does not have any choreography, his dance moves feel extremely organic and carefree, which add to the overall charm of the song. Pastel pinks, reds, and blues are the main focus, particularly the gas station setting highlighted by his blue retro van at the center of the shot. One thing to note is that much of the video is shot in reverse, with everything behind and around Sewoon moving backwards as if to suggest turning back time to give him a moment of peace in the present. It’s a perfect representation of a summer mood, and coupled with the track itself, is quite impactful.
The Album
24 PART 1 is a six track album, leading with the title track before jumping into “Don’t know.” This song is a classic acoustic jam, with the main focus being the acoustic guitar along with Sewoon’s vocals. It’s a light and relaxing song that complements the title very well, bringing a bit more of a calm aura. Next comes “Horizon,” a more pop influenced song that keeps the mood light and calm, with Sewoon maintaining a lower register that feels more like a whisper to help calm the senses.
“Beeeee” introduces a bit of EDM into the mix, with more use of synths and an electronic beat in the chorus. It brings in a taste of something new while maintaining the carefree atmosphere painted by the previous tracks of the album. “O” is next and brings a bit of a surprise in the form of a slower tempo and an unexpected R&B beat that offers random breaks within the rhythm to allow for bouts of silence. It’s particularly addicting and really draws the listener in with its captivatingly unique sound. And finally we have “Hidden Star,” the final melancholy ballad that wraps up the album on a soft and sentimental note.
24 PART 1 definitely showcases Sewoon’s musical talent and the overall cohesiveness is easily heard upon first listen. While the album begins upbeat and carefree, it begins to slow down toward the end until we’re left with a touching, piano-driven emotional ballad that fades into nothing. Even those not familiar with his work would find artistic beauty in this album. Definitely don’t miss out on this release.