Even if you’re unfamiliar with the PLT members, you’ve likely heard of Gaho since his hit OST for Itaewon Class skyrocketed to the top of the charts and won multiple end-of-the-year awards. The singer is back with a new non-OST single since his smash hit “Start Over,” bringing back a nostalgic track for the elder K-Pop fans.

His latest single “Rush Hour'' takes inspiration from the early 2000s, which is most pronounced in the chorus. The song kicks off with a soft acoustic guitar melodic line accompanied by Gaho’s vocals before diving into a more groovy beat that has a tinge of a retro feel. The track almost feels like two different songs, as the melody shifts to a pop-punk sound right at the chorus, an unexpected turn from the lighter verses. Still, it somehow works, and the song becomes instantly infectious. The pronounced electric guitar packs a punch, and accompanied by a synth and Gaho’s high notes, it brings back memories of the popular music scene in 2001. Gaho’s smooth vocals are a perfect fit to bring this track together, blending the best of vocal talent and the rock band sound.

The video adds even more to this concept, with a full band often pictured and Gaho singing passionately at a mic stand just like the punk bands at Warped Tour. The video takes place in a traffic jam, old-timey retro cars lining the streets with Gaho placed in one of them. He eventually saunters out of his car, and other people grab instruments from their own cars and set up a stage amidst the traffic. The video has an upbeat feel that is strangely heartwarming and entertaining at the same time. 

Be sure to check out “Rush Hour” below!