NCT Dream is Back with a New Dark Release, “Smoothie”
After their jam-packed third album ISTJ, NCT Dream is back with their new EP, DREAM( )SCAPE. The new EP is a complete 180 on the bright and colorful concepts we are used to. The moment the concept photos dropped, we all saw the change and were intrigued. Excitement for the release was felt since the announcement, and they did not disappoint. The EP has six songs in total, each with a unique sound.
Tracklist:
“icantfeelanything”
“Smoothie” (title track)
“BOX”
“Carat Cake”
“UNKNOWN”
“Breathing”
DREAM( )SCAPE - EP Album Review
“icantfeelanything” is the first song on the EP. This opening song catches your attention once it starts. This is a song I can picture playing at the beginning of a concert. The Jersey beat created a song that many will dance to. The track video is stunning. Watching member Jisung do graceful ballet steps while we get shots of his battered feet makes a clear connection to the album's storyline. This track is fun. While it has an eerie feeling, the drill beat, and angelic vocals create a song that is a favorite of a lot of people and mine.
The title track, “Smoothie,” is a movie. As we said before, this is a different concept for NCT Dream. As fans, we tend to get used to the concepts and sounds of a group, and a change can throw everyone for a loop, but this new dark concept is perfect for NCT Dream. “Smoothie” has a dark and heavy sound that incorporates enticing vocals. The raps are commanding and show the skillful talent that the members hold. The verses are fast and dynamic, and the vocals are powerful and hold depth. It’s always cool to watch NCT Dream dance and see how electric and mighty each move is. The choreography is hard-hitting and highlights the members' dancing skills. The video is very artistic. The clips of the members in separate rooms told a different story. Each member showed many emotions that made you, as the watcher, never want to look away. “Smoothie” is really good, and the members did an amazing job.
The next track, “BOX,” is so good. This is definitely another favorite of mine. This ‘90s hip-hop-inspired track has this cool effect that was so interesting. There are certain parts of the song that sound like you are trapped in a box. Another interesting fact about this track is that member Mark took part in the creation of this song. This track is in English but still has parts that are Korean. "BOX” is a groovy track that makes you want to get up and dance. The track video shows the members Chenle and Jaemin training. What is so interesting is that each video is part of the storyline and is captivating. The song and the video are both striking and are something I would love to see live.
“Carat Cake” is the next track on the EP. The incorporation of the Jersey beat is back and is so much fun to dance to. I found myself dancing in my seat while listening to this track. “Carat Cake” is an upbeat track that has an addictive beat and lyrics. The chorus has been in my head all day, and this is another favorite of mine. The track video shows the members running down the hall with smiles on their faces. It is super entertaining, and it is understandably a favorite of many.
“UNKNOWN” is so beautiful. This is the fifth song on the EP and carries a beautiful message. “Go chase your dreams. Dive in, dive in, into the UNKNOWN.” The lyrics are so deep and personal, and in the official audio video, we see the members Mark and Haechan wall to wall. Mark then sends over a note saying don’t change. Another great fact is that members Mark and Jeno took part in the creation of this track. It is an empowering track with a calming beat and is another favorite of mine.
The last song on the EP is “Breathing.” Beautiful is the first word to come to mind with this song. “Breathing” is a great song to end the EP. Coming from upbeat dance tracks to a calming ballad with lovely vocals will always be the highlight of an EP. It is great to hear the rappers sing and, in this song, we got to. The creation of this song included members Jaemin, Jeno, Jisung, and Mark. It is always a joy to see the members take part in the creation of their songs and seeing them be a part of this beautiful song brings a smile to my face. The video is emotional and will bring tears to many viewers' eyes. Seeing members Renjun and Jeno in such emotional states will tug at your heartstrings. It is a favorite of mine and a song I hope to see live one day.
DREAM( )SCAPE – EP will go down in history. This EP is amazing and really sticks to the concept. Each audio-video shows the members wanting to escape. Each song discusses chasing your dreams, escaping, and being true to yourself. It is an inspiring, fun, and heartfelt EP, and I and other NCTzens can’t wait for what they have planned next.