A Polished Release - “Doctor! Doctor!” by ZEROBASEONE
by Abhilasha Bhattarai | January 25th, 2025
Teaser Image | via ZEROBASEONE Instagram
ZEROBASEONE is starting the year with an impressive burst of activity, setting the stage for what looks to be a standout year for the group. Just days after the release of their latest Japanese single, they’ve dropped a pre-release track titled “Doctor! Doctor!” to keep fans hooked. This marks the beginning of an ambitious schedule that includes two upcoming EPs—one focusing on J-pop and the other on K-pop. The title “Doctor! Doctor!” might initially give the impression of a high-energy, playful pop anthem, but the track takes a different direction, offering a mid-tempo ballad that feels both refreshing and somewhat nostalgic in today’s fast-paced music landscape.
One of ZEROBASEONE’s most notable strengths lies in their vocal talent, and “Doctor! Doctor!” provides an excellent showcase for it. The track strips back some of the production flashiness often found in idol group releases, allowing their voices to take center stage. This more subdued approach highlights the emotional depth of their performances, with harmonies and individual tones shining throughout. Even with its softer vibe, the song makes space for a rap verse in the middle, adding a touch of variety to the arrangement.
Musically, “Doctor! Doctor!” leans heavily into R&B influences, with a style that feels modern and tailored to today’s streaming audiences. The soundscape has a timeless appeal, reminiscent of tracks by solo artists like Crush or Zion.T, but ZEROBASEONE brings their own group dynamic to the genre. Their ability to adapt to this sound demonstrates their versatility and hints at their potential to explore a wide range of musical styles in the future.
The track’s structure adds to its charm, with subtle dynamics that keep the listener engaged. The first verse introduces a rich melodic range, while the second verse incorporates rhythmic shifts that add a sense of progression to the song. The chorus is a particular highlight, featuring a soft yet distinctive flourish—possibly a guitar riff or synth line—that enhances the song’s texture and adds a memorable touch. These small details make the track feel thoughtfully produced and layered, ensuring it resonates beyond a single listen.
The production is warm and understated, perfectly suited to the winter season, with an intimate tone that invites listeners to connect on a deeper level. Despite its understated vibe, the song has the potential for longevity on the charts, thanks to its universal appeal and polished execution. It’s the kind of track that could quietly build momentum over time, rather than making an immediate splash and fading quickly.
While “Doctor! Doctor!” isn’t an explosive or groundbreaking release, it holds its own as a compelling addition to ZEROBASEONE’s growing discography. It reflects a more introspective and mature side of the group, which contrasts nicely with their more high-energy tracks. By showcasing their vocal abilities and willingness to explore new genres, the song adds depth to their artistic identity and keeps fans eager for what’s next.
As ZEROBASEONE prepares for the release of their upcoming EPs, “Doctor! Doctor!” serves as a promising teaser of their musical direction for the year. The track’s polished production, strong vocal performances, and R&B-inspired vibe suggest that the group is ready to take risks and evolve their sound. This bodes well not just for the fans who have followed them from the start but also for listeners who are just discovering their music. With such a strong start to the year, ZEROBASEONE is clearly positioning themselves as a group to watch in 2025.
