The Kraze

View Original

A Promising Future & A Better Tomorrow With DRIPPIN

Just in time for spring, Woolim Entertainment’s boy band DRIPPIN brings a much-needed addition of creative sounds to the music scene. With their second mini-album A Better Tomorrow, the septet sets forth a tracklist and performance of eminent virtuosity, surprising many with their impressive talents despite being rookies in the industry.

“Young Blood”

Through the title track “Young Blood,” the seven members of DRIPPIN fill the air with youthful energy. “Young Blood” illustrates the group’s vivacious spirit that stimulates the pursuit of their dreams, motivated by “a better tomorrow is waiting.” A song with a rather nice combination of synth sounds and prominent beats reminiscent of house music, DRIPPIN conveys a bright and rejuvenating charm that emboldens listeners to continue their personal pursuits of a better tomorrow as well. Inspired by the stirrings of passion, the group generates a wave of vitality which reflects the colorful nature of DRIPPIN; the dynamics of the track are further accentuated by the captivating rap, rich vocals, and catchy melody. 

The music video delivers the same vibrancy and succeeds in showcasing the multifaceted members throughout the video. Dongyun plays the central role of an ordinary young convenience store part-timer, and sets the link of connectivity between his character and his members. A blackout in the store brings darkness throughout the setting, but a beam of light shines onto an empty row in the beverage refrigerator, fascinating Dongyun and prompting him to examine it. The scene transitions to reveal Junho’s flashlight as the source of light; in essence, bringing Dongyun to a world of escape and ultimately reviving a sense of burning passion in his mundane life. Symbolic and notable in its coherence with the overall vibe of “Young Blood,” the choreography is eye-catching and does not fail to emphasize the unity and collaborative movements that further enhance the overall performance. The variety of outfits simply adds to DRIPPIN’s diverse charms. Business or casual? Suits or hoodies? Check it out for yourself by taking a look at the music video down below!

Second Mini-Album A Better Tomorrow

Through a colorful range of tracks in the album, DRIPPIN introduces their perception of “determination,” an important factor they have embodied after debut. The seven members evoke such enthusiasm and passionate spirit by utilizing the keyword as a catalyst to project a meaningful representation of the group’s second step in their musical career. 

Presenting a tracklist of six songs, the team showcases an assorted spectrum of music. 

“A Better Tomorrow” opens up the group’s second mini-album as the intro. An instrumental that has immense presence with the lack of vocals, the track demonstrates an intense yet refreshing build up of a modern pattern of sounds. The unique combination of classical strings with noises, such as the splashing of water, intensifies the overall notion of youth, dream, spring, and energy. Even having the same title as the album itself, it is undeniable that “A Better Tomorrow” is the perfect introduction to the team’s album.

“Reach out your hands (손을 뻗어봐)" comes after the title track “Young Blood.” Composed of a powerful set of beats that accompany DRIPPIN’s distinctive vocal sounds, the song reveals the group’s sincere emotions as they convey their wish to be with their love interest. The beating sounds play a more subtle role as the song escalates to the climax, and this interchange simply refines the moderate rhythmic flow of the track, engaging the listener to catch onto the tune which exudes DRIPPIN’s unique style.

Carrying a light groove, “Without U” is a trendy R&B pop genre track that encompasses a refreshing mood. With a solid set of drums naturally weaving in with the piano, synthesizer, and vocals, the track undeniably radiates a sense of warmth. Unable to imagine a moment without their lover, DRIPPIN sweetly confesses their heart-fluttering emotions, as well as their desire to be alongside their partner.

DRIPPIN brings a nostalgic concept with their fifth track “Firefly.” Drawing up an image of a firefly that lights up a dark forest, the lyrics stand parallel to the illustration. As the group sings about the small, but reassuring, comfort that a helping hand provides in the midst of hardship, the sentimental aura pulls at the heartstrings of listeners. A personal favorite point in this track is the guitar and piano harmonization that enriches the nostalgic vibes of the track, igniting a sense of warmth like that of a campfire.

“FATE” concludes the album, presenting the listener with another surge of refreshing energy. This track serves to convey the idea that everyone is precious and explicitly communicates DRIPPIN’s encouragement to all. “FATE” is an inspiring track that encourages pursuit of the moment, and uplifting everyone out there living the moment; the song delivers the group’s genuine message of support.

A rookie group that will definitely catch your eye, DRIPPIN makes an impactful comeback with their second mini-album A Better Tomorrow. By taking the step of establishing a solid and distinctive music style, the septet is already exhibiting a budding capacity to explore, absorb, and perform versatile music in DRIPPIN’s unique way. 

A Better Tomorrow Album Score: 9/10

“Young Blood” Title Score: 9/10

“Young Blood” Music Video Score: 9/10

Total Score: 9/10