Nearly 9 years into the industry, SEVENTEEN's first anthology ahead of their anniversary leaves us feeling nostalgic, proud, and a wave of emotions. Their album "17 Is Right Here" details the group's journey over the last few years and tops it off with four new tracks on the album, one group, and three sub-unit tracks. Each unit shined in its way for the tracks 'Spell', 'LALALI', and 'Cheer To Youth', showing off individualistic skills and raw talent. However, when the 13-member boy group combined for their title track, the synergistic effect reminded us why they're one of the top names in the K-Pop world. Their title track 'Maestro' garnered attention worldwide as it told the important message of "Who is the real MAESTRO?"
The reliance on technology is becoming increasingly popular, especially with the rise of AI and its uses. Social media has played a drastic role in the popularity and has seeped into the K-Pop world. It's unsettling how easily you can find a cover from your favorite idol but an AI machine completely sings it. The uncomfortable discussion of "Do we need artists anymore?" is debated among the census.
Many artists in the industry have spoken out about this phenomenon, but SEVENTEEN truly struck many of their fans with a powerful clapback at the use of AI. 'Maestro' details that the only true leaders are artists themselves. Set in a dystopian reality, with visuals of SEVENTEEN members battling machines, and leading others like a conductor, the boy group hit the mark on what it truly means to be the "maestro." Machines can not replicate true artistry, and SEVENTEEN's commanding title track is a reminder that technology can never replace them.
Apart from the title track, the group released three songs for their respective sub-units. Similar to its twin sister 'Fire', 'LALALI' by the hip-hop unit, consisting of S.Coups, MinGyu, Vernon, and WonWoo, was oozing with energy and pure entertainment. 'Spell' by the performance unit, consisting of Hoshi, Jun, THE8, and Dino, not only hypnotized us with its sultry sound but smooth, afro-inspired dance. Ending on a high note, the vocal unit song, consisting of WooZi, JeongHan, Joshua, SeungKwan, and DK, sings of encouragement and an anthem to the youth.
The new songs truly emulated a new side of SEVENTEEN but how could we forget the originals? The album feels like a walk down memory lane, invoking feelings of nostalgia as disc 2 of the album starts with their debut 'Adore U'. From the start with 'Adore U' to now 'Maestro' the two title tracks have stark differences in sound but mimic the essence of SEVENTEEN in every way.
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Even though SEVENTEEN has been in the industry for quite some time now, this comeback feels like the mark of a new beginning for the group and the music they want to share with fans. The group plans to release another album towards the end of 2024 and have already completed their South Korea stops for their "FOLLOW AGAIN" tour recently. We're expecting much more from the group and look forward to what surprises they'll have for their "9th CARAT LAND" fanmeeting this year.
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