iKON Returns with “BUT YOU”

It’s been almost two years since we got an iKON release that wasn’t just a single, but the boy group has finally returned with FLASHBACK and the title track “BUT YOU.” With tracks written and/or composed by BOBBY, Jay, and DK as well as labelmates MINO and YOON from WINNER, 

“BUT YOU” is a synthpop track about wanting nobody “but you.” The lyrics detail a failed relationship, with the other half already dating somebody new, and how the members know their hearts will always crave the other person. This comes at the detriment of whoever else comes into their life or whatever else happens. That’s why it’s slightly confusing that the music video is almost a party video, with iKON seen in an underground club-like setting, strobing lights behind them, as they dance and laugh together. Of course we get the scenes of heartbreak, where one member leaves just to show the remaining member reminiscing about that former love, but it all feels opposed to the lyrics. Even when the music video does drop the neon lights and shows iKON in a gray landscape to go with the lingering memories and feelings, it feels like two videos have been mashed together awkwardly. That’s not to say it isn’t a fun music video; it definitely has some high points and the choreography is killer, but it feels like they got wrapped up in trying to match the sound of the song rather than the message behind the lyrics.

The other five tracks on FLASHBACK are the EDM-based “DRAGON” that stands out among the other streamable tracks and includes a fun build-up at the very end, the soft pop track “FOR REAL,” the tropical-feeling “GOLD” that will be perfect with your windows down on your next road trip, and the ballad track “NAME.” The album version also includes “AT EASE,” the song iKON performed at the end of Kingdom. With all these different sounds and styles, there’s definitely a song for everybody on FLASHBACK.

Edited by Kelly Sipko