SHINee’s BACK! and Says Don’t Call Me with Seventh Full Album
At long last, after many years of patiently waiting, SHINee has returned. Upon the successful completion of all the members’ military service, minus Taemin, within the past few months, fans new and old have been excitedly awaiting the return of the legendary group. Marking their seventh full album, SHINee is here to shake the world once again.
Tracklist:
Title: Don’t Call Me*
Heart Attack
Marry You*
CØDE
I Really Want You
Kiss Kiss
Body Rhythm*
Attention
Kind
*Author’s Favorite Pick
1. “Don’t Call Me”
One thing is for sure when it comes to SHINee: they never cease to deliver an impressive track that will get fans and listeners hyped and energized. Despite its darker theme of obsession and irritation, SHINee does not fail to bring an addictive and catchy song to the mix. “Don’t Call Me” is a plea from the group telling their ex-lovers to stop calling. As the relationship and the love is done, they no longer want any part of it, and there is no room for second chances. SHINee lays down the final hammer and at this point, their exes can stay bitter and obsessed that they are moving on without them. What gives this song that extra bit of flair is the sass from all the members throughout the pre-chorus and chorus that one might miss.
Upon further breakdown of “Don’t Call Me,” the song itself is driven by the repetition of the kick drum and claps that are layered with what seems to be the word “don’t,” morphed into the beat. As the song steadily climbs into the chorus, the drums kick in at a faster pace that then drops to give off the explosive sound that is only enhanced by the power of their combined vocals.
The music video is undoubtedly another masterpiece for the group. From the effortless choreography, the quirky yet cohesive and clean fashion, to the beaten down warehouse to personify the chaos, there is so much to unpack and enjoy from SHINee. SHINee outdoes it once again by delivering difficult choreography that they have expressed on various variety shows is one of their most difficult to date; however, they execute it smoothly.
2. Heart Attack
“Heart Attack” brings it down a notch, stepping away from the darker sound to give one of the first future-funk/city-pop tracks off the album. With the guitar and disco elements scattered throughout the song, “Heart Attack” is a refreshing burst of joy and jitters. “Heart Attack” is a song that represents the beginnings of a relationship, where the rush and excitement are overwhelming to the point where the heart is literally about to burst open. It’s an instant serotonin boost for all listeners and also represents a feeling that many can relate to.
3. Marry You
Prior to the release of the album, SHINee treated fans to a pre-release single during their live broadcast announcing their comeback. Titled “Marry You,” this song is primarily R&B influenced with a soft and smooth groove to it. “Marry You” expresses that feeling of just knowing that their person is “it” for them. SHINee is more than ready to make it official and are so sure of their feelings, that they just want to marry their lovers right now. There is a confident air to this song that exudes so much love and affection. “Marry You” is sure to be stuck on repeat for a long time to come.
4. CØDE
Slowing down the album slightly, “CØDE” still falls in the future-funk category of music with R&B influences sprinkled throughout the song. “CØDE” has the element of mystery clouding over the song, which fits perfectly into the lyrics as this song is all about exploring love. Treading into new territory, especially in the realm of relationships and wanting to know if something will work, “CØDE” explains wanting to “crack the code” to dive deeper and get lost in this new feeling that they are feeling. It’s almost as if listeners are transported into a video game of some sorts as the song also expresses the feeling of unlocking a new level as this relationship progresses.
5. I Really Want You
For those who are big fans of the group’s previous track “Dream Girl,” “I Really Want You” falls right into that alley of similar style. Heavily influenced with that disco-funk sound and Michael Jackson influence, “I Really Want You” is another track that is sure to be on repeat for quite some time. “I Really Want You” is fun and flirty, as the song represents the chase of pursuing a relationship. With themes of wanting to grow closer and declarations of love, how can one deny SHINee when they are practically declaring their love? “I Really Want You” gives that extra pep in one’s step that is very much a signature style of the veteran group.
6. Kiss Kiss
Considerably the sibling track to “I Really Want You,” “Kiss Kiss” is another fun and flirty song. Except, now that SHINee has managed to start the relationship, they simply can’t resist the urge to want to kiss their lovers. There is something cheeky yet very charming about “Kiss Kiss” that will make one shy the more the song is listened to. It’s that moment when sparks fly during a kiss that SHINee yearns for, and they simply can’t get enough of from their lovers. For those who are fans of Doja Cat’s “Say So,” “Kiss Kiss” has similar addictive qualities with the guitar and disco vibes this song offers, begging for a mashup of the songs to happen somehow.
7. Body Rhythm
If the action of body rolling could be a song, “Body Rhythm” would be it. “Body Rhythm” has this tropical, almost reggae sound that transports listeners to chilling on a beach or those steamy summer night outdoor parties with a drink in hand. “Body Rhythm” may be chill, but it’s also sexy and alluring. With bodies pressed up against each other, it’s only a matter of time till things heat up. “Body Rhythm” surely is not a shy song and one that amps up the vibe of the album with a little extra grown up spice.
8. Attention
When it comes to “Attention,” this dreamy song is another that plays on the influences of tropical house music. Whether it’s feeling that adrenaline rush of sneaking out of the house for a late-night date or skirting around the idea of attraction, “Attention” is thrilling and refreshing. “Attention” is innocent in wanting to capture the attention of a lover and further get into the chemistry that is their love language and by the end, it just feels so right. “Attention” brings the album back down to a calm vibe that is feel-good and relaxing despite its upbeat sound.
9. Kind
As the only ballad off the album, “Kind” gives the powerhouse group the chance for their vocals to take center stage and let the emotions within their vocals drive the song. While SHINee has always been known for their exemplary vocal skills, there is something in “Kind” that raises goosebumps and leaves listeners in awe. As the last track on the album, no album with love as the central theme is complete without also expressing the feeling of getting lost in a relationship. Oftentimes many go astray on the path, but “Kind” represents the kindness of outstretching a hand and helping one get back on their feet. There will always be a light at the end of the tunnel and “Kind” is that song. Feeling lost? “Kind” is the comforting song that offers a warm blanket for listeners. Whether it is platonic love or romantic, it’s a song that is meant for everyone of all ages and all love experiences.
Altogether, SHINee delivers one of their best albums to date. Despite their long absence from the industry, SHINee is back and better than ever. While their promotion period of “Don’t Call Me” was short, SHINee is still managing to sweep the charts and pick up music show wins. The power of SHINee and the “Don’t Call Me” comeback is a force and comes as a pleasant gift for fans new and old to enjoy.