Review: Catch The Young: Fragments of Odyssey
Catch The Young returns with an uplifting second EP Catch The Young: Fragments of Odyssey.
Catch The Young (캐치더영) is an alternative pop-rock boy band under EVERMORE ENTERTAINMENT. Sani, Jungmo, Kihoon, Namhyun, and Junyong debuted officially on November 1, 2023, with their mini-album Catch The Young: Fragments of Youth. This week, the band made a comeback with their second mini-album, Catch The Young: Fragments of Odyssey.
The rookie band's concept is encapsulated in their name: Catch The Young. Their aim is to embody the spirit of youth and present it to fans through their music. To achieve this, every member contributes to the songwriting and composition process, and they also showcase their instrumental skills, making this boy group stand out for its unique approach. For this release, each member contributed to at least one of the seven curated tracks on the EP.
Catch The Young: Fragments of Odyssey - EP Tracklist
“Sentimental Journey”
“Voyager”
“The Legend”
“Always, Forever”
“About Us”
“Light On Me (1101)”
“Stay By My Side”
Title Track: Voyager
The title track "Voyager” envelops listeners in a pop-rock song with choir-like harmonies, weaving a sense of hope and liberation that resonates particularly during the bridge and the chorus. The pre-chorus builds with a crescendo, and its momentum is carried by the members' vocals. Reflecting the song's theme of unity amid diversity, it speaks to the group's ability to coexist harmoniously despite embracing different paths.
In the accompanying music video, the members are lounging around their camping van, surrounded by nostalgic relics like cameras, record players, and stereos, which they are using to document their journey. The warm orange and blue color palette of the music video further adds to the nostalgic feel of the storyline. True to the essence of K-Band aesthetics, interspersed scenes showcase each member skillfully playing their instruments in various settings, enriching the visual narrative with the authenticity of their musical prowess.
Sentimental Journey
"Sentimental Journey" is a classic uplifting band song. Its melody resonates with an irresistible sense of nostalgia and optimism. With its buoyant rhythm, the track exudes a cinematic quality that feels tailor-made for the official soundtrack of a K-Drama, capable of enhancing particular scenes and stirring emotions. Delving into the universal theme of pursuing one's childhood dreams, the song invites listeners on a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and resilience, imbuing each note with the hope and determination to chase after one's aspirations.
The Legend
"The Legend" is an upbeat and playful pop-rock track. Its infectious beat and catchy melodies cause the listener to dance to this song. The bridge stands out as a memorable highlight, featuring a solo guitar followed by an impressive high note that builds anticipation towards the song's exciting conclusion. At its essence, "The Legend" embodies a message of self-belief, inspiring listeners to embrace their potential and pursue their aspirations with confidence.
Always, Forever
"Always, Forever" exudes a whimsical and joyful aura, setting a buoyant tone from the very first note. Its indie-inspired instrumental backdrop lends a dreamy quality reminiscent of wave to earth's signature sound. The lyrics delve deep into the emotion of true love, painting a vivid picture of heartfelt affection. This track serves as a showcase for the members' vocal talents, allowing each voice to shine with clarity and expressiveness. As the melody unfolds, it's impossible not to find oneself swaying side to side, caught up in the irresistible charm of the song.
<h5> About Us </h5>
"About Us" grabs attention right from the start. Kicking off with a catchy guitar intro followed by an upbeat drum sequence and an energetic "whoa oh oh" chant, the song instantly engages listeners. As the pre-chorus unfolds, the vocals take the spotlight, complemented by a gradually intensifying drum accompaniment. Exploring themes of personal reunion with memories, the lyrics evoke introspection and nostalgia. This track further showcases the vocal talents of each member, highlighting their unique ranges and strengths amidst the seamless fusion of the track.
Light On Me (1101)
"Light On Me (1101)" serves as a heartfelt ode from Catch The Young to their devoted fans. It's a musical expression of gratitude, acknowledging the unwavering support they've received. The track features yet another stellar guitar solo, this time after each chorus, adding a dynamic touch to the song. What makes "Light On Me (1101)" particularly special is its blend of English and Korean lyrics in the chorus, symbolizing the band's efforts to convey their appreciation, not only to their local fans in Korea but also to their international fanbase.
Stay By My Side
"Stay By My Side" serves as the finale to the album. While the bulk of the track maintains its upbeat tempo and energetic rhythm, the outro undergoes a transformation, transitioning into a gentle ballad accompanied solely by the delicate melody of a piano. Through its lyrics, the song beautifully illustrates the promise of remaining by someone's side, never letting go of their hand, and providing unwavering support and companionship. "Stay By My Side" encapsulates a sense of loyalty and devotion, leaving listeners with a heartfelt and resonant message to cherish.
In an era dominated by mainstream pop and R&B from South Korean acts, it's refreshing to see bands like Catch The Young producing authentic music that stands out from the rest. This marks only the second EP release for Catch The Young since their debut, yet they've already established themselves as a promising act to keep an eye on in the years ahead.
Edited by Lacey Diluvio