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GHOST9 Welcomes Us To Seoul

GHOST9 is back with their third mini-album, Now: Where We Are, Here, featuring their title track “Seoul.” This time, they’re showing fans a different side of them in terms of musicality and concept. In their title track, they’re introducing fans to a meaningful place: the city of Seoul. 

THE TITLE: "SEOUL"

Upon hearing the audio from the teasers, the new route that GHOST9 is taking has become promising to new fans. With a welcoming introduction, "Seoul'' has an eccentric blend of pop and electronic music that is inviting for a first impression. The transitions from rap to harmony fit perfectly in keeping with the theme of adventure. However, the chorus is where you're going to find gold. It feels as if you've transported it into the city thanks to the nostalgic feeling expressed through their vocals. There’s a guarantee that fans will end up repeating the words, “the city of Seoul,” once it has entered their brains. But if that didn't capture your attention, the bridge offers a soft blend of melodies from the members to bless your ears. 

The music video takes fans on an adventure around "the city of lights." With neon lights shining over modern areas of the city and a traditional palace, the visuals give a wanderlust appeal. One could even say the video could easily be used to advertise tourism in Seoul, South Korea. From traveling on the subway to a rollercoaster, GHOST9 does an amazing job encapsulating the desire to join them on their journey through Seoul. Aside from the location, the boys are sporting outfits inspired by hanboks while performing an intricately detailed choreography. Overall, the video production and visuals will leave fans amazed and one step away from purchasing a one-way flight to Seoul. 

THE ALBUM

The Now: Where We Are, Here mini-album begins with “Trigger,” a short one-minute introductory song that alludes to a darker undertone. It’s no surprise that the context of the lyrics appears to mention “pull the trigger,” leaving an intriguing tone for the remainder of the album. 

With the track "Uno" you can hear a heavy electronic music influence right off the bat. However, as the song progresses, it becomes softer as it enters the pre-chorus. The change in sound is very addicting and melds well with the dance genre they've built into this album. As it approaches the chorus, the tempo leaves you excited to hear what’s to come from the chorus. As the music blends out on the word, “Uno,” it creates a unique sound that is pleasing to the ears, leaving you wanting more. Once you get a taste of the chorus, you’ll definitely want to blast this out your car speakers as the sun sets. 

The aura from "Starvoy" encourages the desire to take a chance on life and be “...just the way you are.” Out of the entire album, this track offers a feeling of spontaneity, especially with lyrics like “We’re not a stranger,” and “Dance with a stranger…”. This track could easily fit in a nightclub setting—one where the only focus is to enjoy the music and atmosphere with friends and strangers alike. This song will inspire fans to take any opportunity they’re given to enjoy what life has to offer. 

"Hide & Seek" is an upbeat and pop-inspired B-side that leaves you in a trance. If you’re looking for something fresh to remind you of walking around town on a sunny day, this is the song for you. The soft rap and refreshing vocals will leave you wanting to play it on repeat. The chorus has an indescribable energy that almost motivates you to take a deep breath and enjoy the ride these boys are taking you on. 

Ending on a different note, "Monday to Sunday,” will make you entranced by the peaceful instrumental as the song begins. With lyrics like, “I think a lot about you,” and “...cause you my girl,” this song will definitely develop a desire to fall in love. The appeal of this track is to trust GHOST9 by taking their hand and giving your heart to them. The boys are not taking fans on a journey to a specific place, but instead, an exploration through their hearts and emotions. This track finishes on a high note—ending the multiple adventures that this group has taken us on. 

Overall, Now: Where We Are, Here has proven that GHOST9 can succeed with any concept style they desire, especially the dance genre. This group has continued to show fans that they are multifaceted in their talents as rookies. These boys will certainly leave an impression on you and turn heads with their adventurous album.

"SEOUL" TOTAL SCORE: 8/10

MUSIC VIDEO SCORE: 8.5/10

NOW: WHERE WE ARE, HERE Album Score: 8.5/10

TOTAL SCORE: 8.3/10