After three months since their iconic debut, TOO has made their first comeback with the release of their second mini-album, Running TOOgether. The group has been one of the notable rookies this year since their debut, and their recent participation in Mnet’s Road to Kingdom has only advocated in bringing the group closer to a worldwide audience. Following the show’s prolonged fame, fans’ anticipation for the comeback was quite high and TOO makes sure to serve them with an energizing release.

The Single

“Count 1, 2” is a refreshing upbeat song, fitting in as a perfect release for the summer. A cheerful single from the rookies was indeed an unexpected surprise from a group who seemed to master dark concepts with their debut single. Yet TOO does not stumble anywhere in giving their listeners a breezy beat. With peppy beats and simple structure, the song is easy to follow and enjoy. Adding up to the gentle rhythm and sweet vocals, the lyrics bring out the members' innocence and charm as lovers. The song can also be greatly credited for the blend of charming stanzas with crisp rap verses shared by Chinhoon, J.You, and Chan, which makes the song sound more alive.

Though the track may not be instantly addictive upon first listen, it has its own pace in becoming a delightful listen in a playlist. Above all, TOO's desire to try something new and giving the best to blend in with the concept is highly appreciated.

The Music Video

Bright, colorful, warm, and lively can be the four adjectives to describe the five minute video clip. Complementing the cheerful and lively mood of the song, the music video captures the joy and companionship among the members. The entire video is a celebration as the members are seen cherishing every moment with their mates while playing games and prepping for a party. 

Dressed in colorful casuals with smiles and laughter, the members bring out the flower boy shades that we missed during their debut. The members are also seen wearing matching scout outfits, looking charmingly adorable as high school boys. The bubbly and fun atmosphere throughout the music video brightens the day of every viewer. Though the theme seems far from the previously laid concept and theories of the group, the scene with Woonggi's dream hints at an underlying plot. In the dream, Woonggi witnesses the other members arguing and finally end up hitting each other while forming minor gangs within the team. The tension doesn't go on much longer as he wakes up from the bad dream and everything appears to be back to normal. As a whole, the video invites the viewers to spend one good day with the members.

The Album

Running TOOgether has five tracks including the single.

Exploring with different genres, the group narrates a different tale in every song. The second track,"Step By Step" is a retro dance track that is reminiscent of the popular 90s pop songs. "Better" and "Taillight" shift the mood of the album and bring in the elements of bonding and sincerity shared between the group and their fans. With a mild tune and emotional lyrics, the songs deliver a sense of comfort and promise that anybody would need. The final track is "Dancing in the Moonlight" and brightens up the mood again, ending the EP on a happy note.

Final Thoughts

Seeing TOO in a different style is definitely surprising but rewarding at the same moment. Though some might have expected the act to roar back with another savage comeback, Running TOOgether does not disappoint. Watching the boys make their first comeback with a summer beat gives us hope of seeing more cheerful releases from the rookie artists. And finally, TOO has proved to be an artist we can expect a lot more surprises from in the future!

Did you enjoy listening to TOO's latest EP Running TOOgether? What are your thoughts? Let us know through the comments!