NCT Dream has returned with the repackaging of their second album, Glitch Mode. Titled Beatbox, the repackaged album features four new tracks, including the lead track of the same name. With Glitch Mode selling over 2.1 million copies, it's no surprise that Beatbox garnered over 1.8 million pre-orders, as NCT Dream has continued to take the music world by storm. With all that anticipation, let's get right into this release.

The Dreamies possess an overwhelming aura of joy and youthfulness with their music, an aura that you can't help but become entranced by when you listen to their newest tracks. Glitch Mode saw the group taking on the late ‘90s/early 2000s as its central concept, and Beatbox picks right up with that idea. Heavy with its hip-hop influences, "Beatbox" is a song filled with positivity and all-around gives you that feel-good energy when you listen. It's that same energy that NCT Dream carries in all their music, especially when thinking back to past releases such as "Hello Future." With its playfulness and bright colors, the music video for "Beatbox" gives us a visual representation of just how infectious this song is.

In terms of the three new B-sides on Beatbox, we are gifted with a mix of R&B and pop that fit in perfectly with the other 11 tracks from Glitch Mode. We have "To My First," which reminds me of early 2000s R&B releases and highlights all seven members’ vocal abilities. "Sorry Heart" is similar with its slow melody and stellar vocals; it's stripped down with a guitar and light percussion, bringing even more attention to the vocal abilities of NCT Dream as a whole, not solely its vocal line. The closing song, "On the way," is an R&B-pop fusion that comes full circle with the feel-good vibes and left me smiling as the album came to its end. 

Overall, Beatbox further showcases NCT Dream's talents and their message of positivity. While still young, the members have come a long way since their debut with "Chewing Gum" back in 2016. As we come upon five years with the group, we have watched them mature yet still maintain their bright youthfulness, a trait it seems that only NCT Dream possesses. You can listen to Beatbox here.

Edited by Rashelle B.