B-Side Tracks from W24
Although I have heard the name W24 before and maybe listened to one or two of their songs, 2022 has allowed me to properly dive into this idol rock band’s music. After having been properly introduced to them and their sound through their appearance on the Mnet music competition survival show, Great Seoul Invasion, that led me to see them perform live on their second UK tour of 2022. After debuting in 2018, W24 have released a wide range of sounds through their music, with songs that are fun and catchy and, other times, emotional and of the ballad genre. Not only is their music great, but the members also have a great onstage presence when performing and interacting with their fans, named EVERY. So, for those who are new to or unfamiliar with W24, here are some great B-side tracks for you to check out and enjoy.
“I am down”
Written and composed by keyboardist Aaron, “I am down” closes W24’s 2022 WHITE ALBUM with a dreamy pop-ballad that not only highlights the soft vocals of singer Howon but also shines a spotlight on drummer Jonggil's vocals too. The song opens with a stunning keyboard composition behind Howon’s voice before the sound of drums and other instrumental arrangements enter along with Jonggil’s voice and what appears to be some kind of vocal chant effect. The “I am down” lyrics are repetitive but very catchy, allowing you to easily and quickly join in, singing along with them.
“Because of You”
The third track from WHITE ALBUM, “Because of You” opens with a whispered vocal on top of delicate piano notes that prepare us for a ballad. Coincidentally, or perhaps an intentional choice from the band, a beat slowly kicks in at the 24 second mark, moving us away from the ballad into a style that is more light, upbeat, and jazz-inspired. Leader and guitarist Yunsoo showcases his incredible guitar skills in a standout guitar section that’s even more impressive to hear and witness live.
“Yeah”
“Yeah” expresses a light and refreshing concept that makes me think of a nice, outdoor setting during the fall, like a walk through a park in the cool, fall breeze with this song playing gently into your ears. Written by Yunsoo, “Yeah” carries a calming, laidback sound with lyrics that are catchy and easy to sing along to at their concerts. While Hawon takes charge with the vocals, there’s a small section where we also get to hear Yunsoo provide his vocals through a gentle, faint, whisper-like singing style that adds a nice twist to the song.
“RUAH”
W24 created “RUAH” as part of “Section 3” of Great Seoul Invasion, in which they dedicated the track to Korean Tottenham Hotspur’s football player, Son Heungmin. “RUAH” is more on the hard rock side compared to the rest of W24’s discography, with its aggressive guitar riffs, powerful drum beats, and singing style. I particularly love the end where you can hear somewhat of a musical battle between the guitar, drums, and the keyboard, with the sound of Aaron’s keyboard skills coming through a lot stronger in this particular section than it did during the rest of the song. “RUAH” also incorporates the sound of a shofar, an ancient horn instrument, played by Yunsoo, as well as real commentary from a football match discussing Son Heungmin on the pitch.