TWS Makes Refreshing Debut with Sparkling Blue
Pledis Entertainment has finally debuted a new boy group after nine years: TWS, short for “TWENTY FOUR SEVEN WITH US,” debuted on January 22 with the EP Sparkling Blue. The sextet of Shinyu, Dohoon, Youngjae, Hanjin, Jihoon and Kyungmin have released a calming EP that showcases their youthful charm. Sparkling Blue contains five tracks, including the pre-release single “Oh Mymy : 7s” and the title track “plot twist.”
Tracklist:
“plot twist”
“Unplugged boy”
“first hooky”
“BFF”
“Oh Mymy : 7s”
The Pre-Release: “Oh Mymy : 7s”
TWS released “Oh Mymy: 7s” on January 2, 20 days before debut. A short prologue film, which doubles as the song’s music video, revealed TWS’ members to the world for the first time. The prologue film briefly shows the leadup to the group’s final trainee evaluation. Spectators included Pledis Entertainment CEO Han Sungsoo, HYBE Corporation founder Bang Sihyuk, Pledis producer BUMZU, and nearly all SEVENTEEN members (barring leader S. Coups).
The lyrics say that, despite their newbie status people will become attached to TWS quickly. The phrase “Oh my my” represents an exclamation of people’s reactions.* The song starts with a sample of German composer Robert Schumman’s “Kinderszenen” (“Scenes from Childhood”), going from classical to pop. The song also makes it apparent that “TWS” is pronounced like “to us” (투어스), rather than “T-W-S.” With some gorgeous shots in Europe, snappy editing, an addictive chorus, and energetic choreography, the music video showcased promise for TWS.
The Title Track: “plot twist”
“plot twist” focuses on a school boy concept about first impressions. For rookies, most of who are still teens, it works. TWS sells this concept well. The nerve-wracking moments of introducing oneself are especially relatable to that demographic.
This nervous but endearing energy also transfers to the music video. TWS worries over introductions, to the point of creating a checklist on how to do it well. Them appearing tiny as they mull over the checklist reminds me of GOT7’s video for “Just Right,” another cute boy group song.
The B-Sides
TWS sings “unplugged boy” entirely in English. Despite the lyrics saying “turn up the volume, up to the sky” and “let’s play it loud tonight,” “unplugged boy” is tame in volume levels. It’s less of a party song, but more to “unplug” and relax with friends.
“first hooky” brings the energy back. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, to “play hooky” refers to UK slang for skipping school. School experiences play a key theme throughout Sparkling Blue, and that extends to the choreography in track 4, “BFF.” It utilizes a prop choreography with desks. Overall, TWS’ long-awaited debut is youthful and fresh, though my personal preference would have liked a little bit more punch to the tracks.
*Note: lyrics taken from English captions in the official music video.
Edited by Lacey Diluvio