PURPLE K!SS could not let the summer pass without releasing their first single album. FESTA continues the group’s celebrations following their Japanese debut, Swan’s solo debut, and Yuki’s confirmed debut in EL7Z UP. FESTA includes the title track “7HEAVEN” and B-sides “Biscuit” and “Mistake.” The title track features mostly new contributors to PURPLE K!SS’ discography, while fans can find familiar names in the B-sides, including one with credits from Chaein and Yuki. 

The Title Track: “7HEAVEN” 

“7HEAVEN” swaps the usual PURPLE K!SS eeriness for cheeriness. It’s a far cry from the previous title track “Sweet Juice” and its other predecessors. Even “Zombie” and “Nerdy,” whose upbeat and cheeky energy come closest to “7HEAVEN,” incorporate spooky elements in their compositions. “7HEAVEN” forgoes that entirely, resulting in a surprisingly cute summer track. Boran joined Son Youngjin of production studio Mospick and RBW producer Cocodooboopapa in composing “7HEAVEN.” The latter two also wrote the song’s lyrics, which discuss a desire to party with someone under the summer moonlight. 

If there’s one thing “7HEAVEN” stays consistent with, it’s the way PURPLE K!SS sings the lyrics heavenly. Though the group appoints Na Goeun, Swan, and Chaein as the main vocalists, all six members showcase singing parts that allow listeners to bask in the harmony of their voices. The music video is also visually appealing, with many pastel colors on display. It appears very carefree, simply displaying fun summer moments. Additionally, Queendom Puzzle viewers may recognize the indoor car wash set from DROP The Beat’s “Charismatic” performance video.

The B-Sides: “Biscuit” and “Mistake”  

FESTA’s first B-side, “Biscuit,” is a treat in more ways than one. Not only does “Biscuit” sound pleasantly calming, it features the songwriting efforts of Chaein and Yuki. Chaein also participated in the composition and arrangement with Adam H. Evans. Fans likely recognize Adam H. Evans under his other names, Kim Kihyun and Cosmic Sound. Shorter songs definitely appear more prevalent in pop music especially, and “Biscuit” sadly runs into this issue. It barely runs longer than two-and-a-half minutes, personally disappointing me considering the credited names. However, with all three contributing to the group’s music in some capacity, I have no doubt they can deliver more songs in the future. 

“Mistake” is the second and final B-side. Those fond of “SuMMer RaiN” from PURPLE K!SS’ fourth EP Geekyland will find themselves attuned to “Mistake.” “Mistake” is a melancholy upbeat track that shares the same composing team of Flora, AllThou, Davve, and Kang Jiwon. Flora and AllThou penned the lyrics alongside Kinsha and ONEWE’s Giuk. Make no mistake though, the track stands well on its own: though it may not be traditionally chilling, the repeated lyric “mistake all the time” conveys the scary message of immense regret. When paired with the lines of, “love will die / You could be my lover but you’re gonna fade away,” “Mistake” leaves no doubts about its nature.