After Management Switch, fromis_9 Returns as Catchy and Energetic as Ever

On August 16, 2021, when fromis_9 transferred management from Off The Record Entertainment to Pledis Entertainment, many fans worried about the group’s uncertain future. However, with “Talk & Talk,” their first comeback since the transfer, fromis_9 shows that the group—with their signature bright, upbeat sound—is here to stay.

With its repetitive and undeniably catchy hook, “Talk & Talk” continues the bouncy, energetic pop fans have come to expect from fromis_9’s consistent discography. The song describes the excitement of staying up late to talk with a crush over the phone.

While the music video for fromis_9’s previous comeback, “WE GO,” featured shots of the members traveling around the world to glamorous vacation destinations, the movie for “Talk & Talk” takes place at home. In an apartment building labeled “flover APT,” each member sings from their own carefully decorated, color-coordinated room. The video also incorporates a couple retro touches: the members sing into ‘70s-style landline phones and wear chunky geometric earrings. 

Like “WE GO,” whose video highlighted video calls, messaging, and other ways we stay connected over long distances, “Talk & Talk” may also offer some comfort for those feeling lonely and isolated during the pandemic. “Feels as if you’re right next to me, over the phone I hold in my hand,”* main vocalist Jiwon sings in the song’s opening. 

fromis_9’s last three singles, “Feel Good (SECRET CODE),” “WE GO,” and “Talk & Talk,” have all showcased a more conventional pop sound than the group’s previous releases. Earlier comebacks like the fan-favorite “FUN!” (2019) and the group’s breakout hit “LOVE BOMB” (2018) stood out for their unexpected, at times eccentric, melody, and structure. Perhaps fromis_9 is maturing into a more traditional sound, or maybe the group will return to their youthful experimentalism in the future. 

“Talk & Talk” was released as a stand-alone single, and in the four years since their debut, fromis_9 has yet to record a full-length album. In previous releases, fromis_9’s versatility has shone through in B-sides: from the jazzy, yearning “Promise” off their 2021 release 9 WAY TICKET, to the hyper-energetic, sparkly “22CENTURY GIRL” on their 2018 EP To. Day. Hopefully, future comebacks will give the group more room to explore new styles and further develop their sound through B-Sides. In the meantime, fans can enjoy fromis_9 doing what they do best: making energetic, feel-good pop hits.

*Translated lyrics from music video’s English subtitles