HyunA Makes Fierce Return with “I’m Not Cool”
HyunA is back and she has finally blessed us with her newest creative work after having to take a hiatus due to health concerns last year. In new interviews, she has openly expressed that she was disappointed and angry with herself when she couldn’t come back earlier like she had planned, but because of that she worked even harder on this album to show a new side of herself.
Let’s Talk Music!
Tracklist:
“I’m Not Cool” ♔
“GOOD GIRL”
“Show Window”
“Party, Feel, Love” feat. DAWN
“FLOWER SHOWER”
“I’m Not Cool”
With “I’m Not Cool,” HyunA gives fans a look into her mind, confidently showing A-ing how she sees herself and her image. Without even looking, if you heard this song, nine times out of ten you would immediately know it was HyunA because it has her flair. It has her style—that being said, barely anything about her title track sound has really changed or evolved from the last few comebacks. “I’m Not Cool” is very predictable in terms of lyrics, and although catchy enough to sing, it’s nothing new. The same can be said for the track itself with the EDM style build up and bass drops though they did switch it up at the post-chorus and bridge, which is what kept the interest there until it grew after a few more listens.
B-Sides
“GOOD GIRL” was originally set to be her comeback pre-release single when it was first announced back in August of 2020, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a perfect blend of new and old sounds, combining the usual elements of HyunA’s signature sound with new vocal styles and breakdowns in the pre-choruses and bridge. Another interesting choice that they made was keeping the vocal ad libs in the background; they do add to the song, but they’re so pronounced that they almost draw attention away from HyunA and throw people off at first. Either way, the song is an amazing track and it probably would have made a better title track.
“Show Window” is an R&B track that gives us a slight change of pace on the album without drastically changing the vibe—that slow transition is something that can be appreciated if you’re one of those people who doesn’t listen on shuffle. The melody line starts the song out rather simple with it only being accompanied by repetitive hits to keep tempo and the snare drum until the bass line comes in when HyunA starts off with her first verse; this lasts until the pre-chorus when the beat changes to a snap, bass, and gradual synth that sneakily attacks at the chorus. In terms of production, this track was well done and it brings out that mature side that many wanted to hear again.
“Party, Feel, Love” features fellow soloist and boyfriend, DAWN. It’s a medium tempo R&B track that continues the mature streak on the album as it showcases the passion that the couple have for music and each other. “When you put your arms around me, it’s like being saved by an angel,” and “Don't rush, slowly. That gesture that caught my heart. Your distracted eyes. I want to know until the end of you.” These are just some of the lyrics, but they’re accentuated by HyunA’s sultry voice, DAWN’s unique drawl, and the well produced backtrack—which is amazing although it’s simple; it fits the atmosphere the song gives out and helps the lyrics ride the beat. Definitely a great addition to the EP.
“FLOWER SHOWER” was previously reviewed here, check it out!
“I’m Not Cool” Title Score: 7.5/10
“I’m Not Cool” MV Score: 8.5/10
I’m Not Cool Album Score: 8/10
Total Score: 8/10
*Lyric translation from here.