Review: Highlight Switch On
The South Korean boy band Highlight has returned with their fifth mini-album titled Switch On. Highlight emerged as the rebranded version of the second-generation K-Pop boy group, BEAST. After leaving Cube Entertainment, the members established their own agency, Around Us, and adopted the name Highlight in early 2017. Their debut under this new identity came with the album CAN YOU FEEL IT? on March 20, 2017, marking a significant milestone in their career.
Now, Yoon Dujun, Yang Yoseop, Lee Gikwang, and Son Dongwoon return from a 16-month hiatus with a chart-topping mini-album to celebrate their 15th debut anniversary. Switch On consists of five tracks including songs written and composed by member Lee Gikwang.
Switch On - EP Tracklist:
“BODY”
“Switch On”
“Feel Your Love (48.6Hertz)”
“How to Love”
“In My Head”
Title Track: “BODY”
The EP kicks off energetically with its title track "BODY," a lively pop song featuring an irresistible dance beat and memorable hook. After just one listen, you'll find yourself humming "shake your body, your body, your body right" and quickly hitting replay on your streaming app to enjoy the song once more. The track does a great job of showcasing Highlight’s maturity and silliness all together. In the accompanying music video, Highlight's essence is perfectly captured through a blend of sophistication and playfulness. The members wear both elegant attire and vibrant, youthful outfits, reflecting the diverse facets of Highlight’s overall vibe.
“Switch On”
"Switch On" is one of the songs on this EP co-written by Lee Gikwang. It captivates listeners with its dreamy drum bass and an unconventional chorus anti-drop. The song's lyrics offer insight into the album's title, "Switch On," symbolizing Highlight's reemergence in the music scene after a temporary hiatus. The metaphorical switch, once off, has been flipped back on, bringing the members back to the stage, shining brighter than ever.
“Feel Your Love (48.6Hertz)”
"Feel Your Love (48.6Hertz)" serves as a heartfelt ode to Highlight's devoted fandom, Light. Combining rock elements with pop sensibilities, this infectious track showcases the members' appreciation for the connection and unwavering love they receive from Light, unconditionally. Through its nostalgic lyrics, the song reminisces on cherished memories shared between Highlight and Light, while also inspiring hope and excitement for the future moments yet to unfold.
“How to Love”
"How to Love," is the fourth song on the mini-album, also co-written by Lee Gikwang. This love confession song captures the members expressing their eagerness to embark on a journey of love for the first time, having fallen for someone special. The repeated lyrics “how to love?” in the chorus and playful melody create an immersive experience, drawing listeners into the song as if they were part of a captivating romantic K-Drama.
“In My Head”
Here's another rock-infused pop love song! Also, co-written by Lee Gikwang, this track beautifully captures the emotions of falling head over heels in love. The melody and the song's powerful delivery evoke those cliched feelings of longing for your crush, and love clouding your brain making it a relatable and heartfelt experience for the listener.
Highlight is capturing the eyes, ears, and hearts of K-Pop fans all over the world with their return, and we cannot wait to see more of their content this year. What was your favorite song on Switch On?
Edited by Vivian N.