Fantagio
The K-Pop industry is constantly changing with the influx of brand new artists almost every other day. In this sea of talent, one musical act that has remained consistently powerful, beloved by fans and fellow artists alike, is ASTRO. Immediately with their debut, the industry knew that a shift had taken place. Today, ASTRO is one of the biggest boy groups in the nation and their music is not only commercially successful but also critically lauded on a global scale.
Here's how ASTRO has evolved musically over the years, from 3 of their earliest songs to 3 of their latest!
'HIDE&SEEK'
ASTRO's debut lead single 'HIDE&SEEK' has attained iconic status in K-Pop. It was generation-defining and a step away from the massive focus on hip-hop that K-Pop groups, especially boy groups at the time were targeting. ASTRO had larger expectations to live up to, especially since they garnered considerable attention in their pre-debut phase but no one could have guessed that their debut would be talked about as one of the best ones to date. The production value of 'HIDE&SEEK' is top-notch and the consistent rhymed refrain adds the right bit of innocence to the melody. The synth work and electro influences are artistically reworked. One thing that stood out even more importantly, was how confident and stable each member's performance already was, almost as if they had been doing this forever.
'BREATHLESS'
The summery flower boy concept continues in 'BREATHLESS' but in a way that we never would have imagined. Fantasy takes center stage in the music video but musically, it is just as refreshing as the bottles of orange pop. At this point in their career, ASTRO was already able to effectively infuse their music with their own scent. One couldn't help but adore these boys, especially because of how sincere they were in their art. The song is tropical and energetic, perfectly justifying its title. ASTRO's live performance at this time was also a thing of wonder! We have to say, there has not been as innovative a concept like 'BREATHLESS' ever since.
'CONFESSION'
With 'Confession', ASTRO was stepping away from their comfort zone, as can be expected from true artists. This song was a patchwork of many different sounds, from city pop elements to video game tunes, electric guitar, and synth, all brought together by an angsty school pop anthem. It keeps you on your toes and refrains from getting predictable. While the vocal work is brilliant, the rap-line takes it to a whole new dimension. We're starting to see the unique flavours of each individual member, prefacing the start of something legendary in the works.
'KNOCK'
'KNOCK' not only shows the maturity of the members over the years but also the development and maturity of their sound. ASTRO effectively moved from a high-teen sonic aesthetic to a more electronic pop sound. However, something unique about ASTRO is that they have the rare ability to integrate seemingly disparate techniques into a beautifully coherent and original sound. From ballad-like vocals to K-Hip Hop style rap, EDM to bubblegum pop, ASTRO's expansive musical knowledge and mastery show in their own music.
'ONE'
'ONE' brought ASTRO a whole new generation of fans as the group redefined their sound once more. Like we mentioned earlier, ASTRO does not believe in a comfort zone. Exploring combinations of electro-funk and subtle disco-pop influences, 'ONE' is a masterpiece. The rap-line in particular, with their confident and bold choice of an unusual flow, makes this track a hundred times more impactful.
'AFTER MIDNIGHT'
The hard-hitting impression of 'ONE' left AROHA and critics alike, believing that ASTRO was at their peak. However, little did we know that ASTRO would hit us with another one of the best songs yet, 'AFTER MIDNIGHT'. 'AFTER MIDNIGHT' signifies a perfect completion, musically. Bringing back the playful cheer of the pop sound of their debut days and delivering it with a taste of mature charm, ASTRO has come full circle. It is as if there's a willing suspension of the heaviness of adulthood and a renewed childishness that is highlighted through 'AFTER MIDNIGHT'.
ASTRO keeps getting better and better, surprising us with every step. We will continue to walk down an eternal flower road with them, showering our idols with all the love and support in the world. Are you an AROHA? Show your support in the comments section down below!
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