P1 Harmony Sad Song Mini Album Review
by Abhilasha Bhattarai | October 29th, 2024
After the remarkable success of their debut full-length album 때깔 (Killin' It), which earned P1 Harmony their first Korean music show win and top spots on international charts like #1 on Billboard’s World Albums and #2 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales, the group returns with their seventh mini-album, SAD SONG. This seven-track release explores themes ranging from the feeling of being trapped and the need for self-reward during difficult times to the innocence of a first love. True to their style, P1 Harmony dives into a range of genres, each song highlighting fresh facets of the members' talents.
The title track, "SAD SONG," is a potent mix of moody lyrics and upbeat instrumentals that pack a punch. The pre-chorus showcases leader and main vocalist Keeho, who sings, “I try to get away, loneliness stuck in my heart, oh, no, the sad song puts me in prison.” In the English version that closes the album, he switches to, “I try to get away, I'm stuck in this loneliness, I can't get out of sad songs, just locked up in here.” This emotional core sneaks in, often masked by the infectious melody, urging listeners to dive deeper into the lyrics to uncover the melancholy beneath the vibrant sound. My favorite part of the song is the bridge, which the other main vocalist sings, and my personal bias is that of Theo. This bridge captures nostalgia and longing with the repeated line, “I miss the times we had,” emphasizing the weight of shared memories. The line “네가 나를 그리워하는 그때가 오겠지” (“The time will come when you miss me”) adds a bittersweet twist, hinting at future regret. This moment feels universally relatable, resonating with anyone who has loved and lost.
The piano riff adds flair and rhythm, blending perfectly with rapid-fire raps and harmonized vocals. Intak’s raw vocal tone adds depth, while Jongseob’s smooth flow confirms his standing as one of the most compelling rappers of his generation. Keeho and Theo’s soulful voices shine throughout, bringing their unique style to life. Their final bridge harmony is incredibly captivating, leaving a lasting impact. Unlike many K-pop tracks and Western hits that aim for viral TikTok moments, P1 Harmony's song is authentic and fresh, combining talented vocalists, rappers, and synchronized dancers to create a high-energy experience.
The mini-album B-sides delve into nostalgic sounds, especially for early 2010s American pop fans. For instance, the third track, "Last Call," captures a Big Time Rush or Up All Night-era One Direction vibe with its upbeat chorus, subtle dialogue moments, and funky electric guitar, evoking classic boy band charm. Another highlight, "All You," the fifth track, is a heartwarming piece on the nervous excitement of confessing love. With its piano-led R&B groove, it carries a youthful nostalgia that is both refreshing and relatable.
While some tracks feel reminiscent of P1 Harmony's previous album in instrumentation and style, SAD SONG introduces “WASP,” the group’s first unit track featuring rappers Intak and Jongseob. Drawing from 2016-2017 American rap influences, it’s a bold and gritty concept that expands their style. However, the chorus feels sparse and repetitive, lacking the vibrant energy the group typically brings. Nonetheless, it’s a strong concept that showcases their versatility.
Since their 2020 debut, P1 Harmony has continuously evolved, offering a distinctive sound that feels genuine in a competitive industry. SAD SONG exemplifies this approach, blending raw energy, lyrical depth, and the standout songwriting talents of their rappers. This release keeps their momentum going and proves they are a group on the rise, committed to pushing boundaries with every comeback.
