HOT - Le Sserafim
by Abhilasha Bhattarai | March 17th, 2025
Fourth-generation K-pop icons Le Sserafim have shown remarkable growth and resilience with their newest mini album, “HOT.” This comeback, following a seven-month break after their previous album, “CRAZY,” Is a testament to their evolution. “HOT” marks the end of the group's seven-month hiatus and the conclusion of their second trilogy of albums, a significant milestone in their career. Since their debut, this powerhouse girl group has been on a meteoric rise, captivating fans worldwide with their unique blend of bold concepts, infectious energy, and a sound that refuses to be boxed into any genre. With each release, they've shown a fearless approach to experimentation, whether through their genre-defying tracks, visually stunning music videos, or choreography that leaves audiences in awe.
Le Sserafim, with their alluring performances, have solidified their reputation as fourth-generation powerhouse performers with every comeback. Their eclectic and diverse discography, while staying true to their unique sound, never fails to impress. Their high-fashion chic, minimalistic modernism and bold yet effortless aesthetic are what I picture when I think of LE SSERAFIM—and once again, they have delivered.
“HOT” is the most conceptually cohesive project that they've released thus far. “HOT” is a fun summer concept from the lyrics to the photos. Every track feels like a warm, hazy summer day—the air is thick with heat, the beach is calling, and everything moves a little slower. It’s almost like Source Music bottled up the Outer Banks vibe, threw in a dash of Daisy Jones & The Six, and turned it into an album. This is the summer soundtrack, which makes its release timing a bit of a surprise—but hey, at least I’ll have it memorized by the time summer rolls around! Some people expected a high-energy, bad-bitch anthem from HOT, but I love that they went in a completely different direction. It’s fresh, unique, and full of gorgeous instrumentals that perfectly capture the essence of a lazy summer day.
The album starts with an electrifying intro called “Born Fire,” it's easily one of my top two instrumentals on the whole record! LE SSERAFIM never disappoints with their album intros; this is no exception. The visuals are a stunning extension of their brand—think runway-ready, sleek, and effortlessly cool. True to their signature style, “Born Fire” weaves together spoken poetry and storytelling in English, Japanese, and Korean, beautifully capturing a fire that symbolizes the group's insatiable hunger and passion for greatness. It's a thrilling experience from the very first moment!
The album effortlessly transitions into its title track, “HOT,” which unveils a surprisingly mellow experience that defies initial expectations. Rather than erupting into an explosive, high-energy anthem, “HOT” unfolds with a smooth, bass-heavy groove that captivates listeners like a slow, seductive burn, radiating an irresistible allure. The deep, grungy bassline instantly grabs attention, echoing the funky, bass-driven essence reminiscent of artist Blu DeTiger. As the track evolves, the flawless guitar outro gracefully leads into “Come Over,” crafting a moment of pure auditory bliss. The intricate interplay of filtered guitar and bass in the intro establishes a serene atmosphere, adhering to the structural familiarity of a quintessential Global Top 50 pop song while infusing it with a distinctive, refreshing flair.
The track “Come Over” emerges like a sun-soaked gem from the groovy 70s, perfectly encapsulating the essence of summer road trips—windows rolled down, the warm ocean breeze tousling your hair, and the golden hues of a sunset beautifully painting the horizon. It immerses listeners in a dreamy teenage summer utopia, evoking a sense of youthful exhilaration and sweet nostalgia. The instrumentals are breathtaking, layering vibrant melodies that linger long after the final note. I’m thrilled to see it getting the promotion it deserves. Featuring captivating Fosse-inspired choreography and enchanting 50s Parisian styling during its stage performances, “Come Over” transforms into a delightful retro-pop anthem, pulsating with a quirky beat that brings to mind the playful spirit of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso.”
The fan-favorite B-side, “Ash,” takes center stage next. If “Come Over” embodies the carefree spirit of summer, then “Ash” delves into introspection, serving as the soundtrack for late-night reflections. This track feels like drifting on a cloud—its ethereal vocals, entwined with layered instrumentals, conjure a dreamlike atmosphere that captivates the senses. Yet, the poignant lyrics truly seize the spotlight, employing the powerful imagery of a phoenix’s death and rebirth to illustrate themes of pain and healing. Given LE SSERAFIM's challenges over the past year—and with Yunjin credited as a writer—this song resonates deeply, striking a personal chord. Renowned for their iconic B-sides that often overshadow their title tracks, “Ash” follows suit with its haunting beauty. The exquisite falsettos and rhythmic synths create a sultry, almost sensual aura that contrasts with the heartbreaking lyrics, revealing a more mature and profound side to the group’s artistry.
Closing out the EP, “So Cynical (Badum)” maintains a laid-back vibe while delivering enough rhythm to avoid any sense of sluggishness. It is the perfect wind-down to an album celebrated for its subtle nuances. However, it does have one minor drawback: the repetitive “bum bum bum” in each chorus. While it initially hooks the listener, it tends to lose its charm by the end and feels somewhat overused. A more dynamic bridge could have significantly elevated the track, yet it fulfills its purpose admirably as a conclusion to the album. The vibrant vocal chops lend a nostalgic touch reminiscent of the 2010 club scene, creating a fun and engaging finale that wraps up the journey beautifully.
In a musical landscape dominated by high-octane K-pop anthems, LE SSERAFIM boldly charts a different course with their captivating single, “HOT.” This track is a slow-burn masterpiece, drawing listeners into its mesmerizing embrace. The entire EP resembles a cinematic journey, evoking vivid imagery of sun-drenched summer days and sultry nights that linger, refusing to cool down. Each note transports you to a realm where time stretches, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that invites you to bask in its warmth.
