Lee Chanhyuk’s second solo album is simply days away and guarantees to mine many traditional sounds of the 80’s. Previous to its launch, he’s shared new monitor Out Of My Thoughts (돌아버렸어). From what I can gauge from the spotlight medley, its synth-heavy sound is emblematic of what we’ll be getting on the total challenge.
It’s been fascinating to see which path Chanhyuk takes for his solo work. There are tinges of the 80’s in a pair AKMU songs, however that’s by no means been a driving drive of their music. Out Of My Thoughts appears like an extension of the textures he was working with again in 2022, tethered to an ethereal tune that acts as extra of a vibe-setter than a spotlight all by itself. Out Of My Thoughts is strikingly easy, primarily looping across the similar melody again and again. This can probably work higher within the context of an album than by itself.
As for the manufacturing, Out Of My Thoughts is as near synthwave as Okay-pop will get. It favors an insistent moodiness over noticeable peaks and valleys, making it excellent as a soundtrack. It’s not the model of 80’s music I are inclined to gravitate towards, however it seems like there will probably be larger moments on the album so I’m desperate to see how this suits into the story.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Manufacturing | 8 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 7 |
| RATING | 7.75 |
Grade: C+
