A “DEEP DIVE” Into GOLDEN HOUR: Part 2

ATEEZ PRESENT! That’s right, our favorite pirates are back and have dropped GOLDEN HOUR: Part 2. If you’re new, ATEEZ is an eight-member mega-boy group from KQ Entertainment that’s been on a roll ever since their debut back in 2018. What makes ATEEZ stand out is their incredible ability to blend genres while still keeping their sound uniquely their own. The addition of symphony instruments and hard-hitting synths brings a vivid, cinematic vibe to their music, effortlessly combining classical and modern elements in a way that feels fresh yet true to their experimental spirit.

Back in May of this year, they released GOLDEN HOUR: Part 1 where we were introduced to their iconic hit and title track, “WORK.” The first installation of this era showed a vibrant blend of Latin pop, reggae, hip-hop, and EDM influences filled with memorable lines you’re bound to repeat. In contrast, GOLDEN HOUR: Part 2 focuses on a stronger fusion of hip-hop, EDM, and trance along with Latin and psychedelic influences featuring heavier beats, bold lyrics, sharper rap sections, and their signature other-worldly vocals. 

GOLDEN HOUR: Part.2 - EP Tracklist: 

  1. “DEEP DIVE” 

  2. “Scene 1: Value” 

  3. “Ice On My Teeth” 

  4. “Man on Fire” 

  5. “Selfish Waltz” 

  6. “Enough” 

“DEEP DIVE”

The EP starts strong with the smooth R&B track, “DEEP DIVE.” From the first listen, it’s instantly captivating, and a track that hooks you right away and demands to be favorited. The song is on the more tamed side, with a strong hip-hop/R&B influence combined with mesmerizing vocals. Listeners will be moving their heads along to the beat and captivated by their smooth vocals. Each vocalist got a turn at the chorus, which added depth and excited fellow ATINYs, and the rap line’s flow is something out of this world. There’s something about this song that makes you want to take a drive at night with the windows down, with it blasting through the speakers. It feels like a story being told, and Hongjoong’s rap at the end is the perfect final touch. 

“Scene 1: Value” 

Imagine, you’re a pirate and you are sailing the deep blue sea. In the background, is an eerie pirate jingle playing. You can hear the sound of someone humming in the background, creating this kind of dark aura around it. Then, the beat drops and you feel like jumping up and dancing. The beat is hard-hitting and is a complete 180 from the beginning of the track. For this song only being one minute and one second in length, you can picture a whole storyline just from the instrumental. Great minds truly think alike, because ATEEZ had us feeling like we were sailing the seven seas. 

“Ice On My Teeth” (Title Track)

They have done it again, and dropped a title track ATINYs will never forget. If you didn’t instantly start to dance, that is all the more reason you should go back and listen to it again. “Ice On My Teeth” is a groovy track with heavy R&B and hip-hop influence that will make you dance. There’s a contemporary spin infused into the track as well. Violins and violas are heard in the chorus which gives this a more sophisticated sound. This song just feels rich, and the members sing and rap with this smooth, low register. “Ice On My Teeth” is very addictive and you can find yourself singing it throughout the day.

Speaking of a rich feeling, the music video is gorgeous. Throughout the video, you can’t help but take in the amount of beautiful scenery. There are ballerinas, crystal chandeliers, and a mansion. The members look sleek in their all-black suits and give off this strong presence. The production of the music video is like a movie. The way it cuts from scene to scene will have you on the edge of your seat. 

As we watch the video, the choreography takes center stage, and it’s clear this routine will inspire countless covers. The members move in perfect sync showing the effortless vibe ATEEZ always brings to their choreographies. It's easy to imagine fans putting their own spin on this soon-to-be iconic dance. Overall, it’s a great song and the stages ATEEZ presents are sure to be nothing short of amazing. 

“Man on Fire” 

ATEEZ must want us on our feet the whole time, because “Man on Fire” will have you grooving. In this song, you can hear that Latin influence come back into play, with a mixture of what sounds like reggaeton. This is the perfect song to be played at a party so you can move and groove. It is understandable if this becomes a favorite amongst ATINY and will be awesome to see it in person. 

“Selfish Waltz” 

This track takes you on a journey with the genre fusion of psychedelic pop and R&B, layered with euphoric synths that make the listener feel like they’re in a never-ending trance. The track captures the cyclical nature of selfishness and love, comparing it to a waltz that spins lovers into the same emotional battleground over and over again. This metaphor for the madness of repeating the same patterns makes the track haunting, beautiful, and deeply evocative by nature from the vocals to the arrangement and production of this masterpiece. Prepare to feel as though you’re gliding across a dimly lit dance floor loss in an endless loop of bittersweet connection. 

“Enough” 

This song is so uplifting. “Enough” is a beautiful reminder for those feeling low that you are enough. A tear will definitely find its way down your cheek. This mainly English upbeat pop track has those elements of a ballad as well. The high notes, runs, and harmonizing will make you clutch at your heart. This track is needed. It’s a breath of fresh air and holds such a powerful message. We all have those days when we feel down and this song will brighten that mood. If the group ever performs this song at a concert, it will have everyone in tears. It’s breathtaking and a great way to end an album jam-packed with a high level of artistry for which ATEEZ is known. 

The album stands out with its dramatic arrangements, bold transitions, and powerful choruses, all while balancing innovation with staying true to ATEEZ’s core sound. It highlights their growth and unique identity, while the lyricism is both intricate and impressive. ATEEZ has done it again, delivering a stellar project to their discography that will be deemed as a classic.

Check out GOLDEN HOUR: Part 2 - EP for a smooth and enjoyable time. 

“Ice On My Teeth” TITLE TRACK SCORE: 9.7/10

“Ice On My Teeth” MUSIC VIDEO SCORE: 10/10

GOLDEN HOUR: Part 2 - EP ALBUM SCORE: 10/10

Total Score: 9.9/10

Edited by Joi Berry

ReviewCidney Atcherson & Joi BerryATEEZ, Boy Groups1 Comment