[ALBUM REVIEW] SF9’s ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’: Turning Lemons into Lemonade (and a Bop!)

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SF9 delivers a refreshing and easy-listening summer comeback with their latest mini-album, FANTASY.

Third-generation K-Pop group SF9 has returned with their fourteenth mini-album, FANTASY, a delightful summer offering that showcases their musical evolution and deep appreciation for their fans. This comeback, arriving just seven months after their previous release, Sequence, marks a new chapter for the group, highlighting a brighter concept and a stronger connection to their dedicated fanbase, aptly named FANTASY.

The album, featuring five members—YOUNGBIN, INSEONG, YOO TAEYANG, HWIYOUNG, and CHANI—is a testament to their individual talents and unwavering synergy. The vocal line shines with newfound depth and maturity, captivating listeners with their poignant delivery and soaring high notes. IN SEONG’s emotive vocals in “Cruel Love” and YOO TAEYANG’s impressive writing skills in “Melodrama” are particularly noteworthy, demonstrating the vocalists’ growth and versatility. Meanwhile, the rappers not only showcase their lyrical dexterity but also surprise and delight with their unexpectedly strong vocal performances, proving their multi-faceted talents. As always, YOUNGBIN’s rapping throughout the album is flawless, delivering each line with precision and charisma. HWIYOUNG is particularly impressed with his effortless vocal range in “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” which proves his growth as a vocalist. And CHANI’s captivating vocals add depth and emotion to the poignant track “Just,” showcasing his ability to convey complex feelings through his voice.

The title track, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” is the album’s radiant centerpiece. It’s a feel-good anthem that instantly uplifts your mood with its infectious melody and cheerful rhythm. The song’s uplifting message of letting go of worries and embracing happiness resonates deeply with the album’s overarching themes of resilience and new beginnings.

The accompanying music video for “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” is a visual feast that creatively suggests the process of healing from a breakup, presenting five distinct methods symbolized by different locations. Together, the members navigate these unique steps, from erasing memories at a quirky restaurant to washing away pain at a car wash and finding a fresh start at a coin laundry. Each scene unfolds with a touch of whimsy and charm, showcasing the members’ natural acting skills and playful personalities, all with a signature SF9 charm that leaves you thinking, “Only they could pull this off.” The heartwarming inclusion of behind-the-scenes footage at the end offers a glimpse into the camaraderie and dedication that went into creating this project.

Beyond the title track, FANTASY impresses with its diverse range of easy-listening musical offerings. “Cruel Love” delves into the complexities of a painful relationship, showcasing the group’s ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability through their music. The song’s dynamic arrangement and powerful vocals create a captivating listening experience. “Just” is a bittersweet ballad-esq style that explores the delicate balance between holding on and letting go. The members’ heartfelt delivery and the song’s gentle R&B melody evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia.

“My Fantasia” is a vibrant and energetic expression of a dreamlike reality, with lyrics like “More than anything, this moment with you is the best. Is the fantasy I’ve been hoping for right before my eyes? May it last forever. Our peace and love. I get lost in the music.” The song perfectly captures the essence of a perfect moment and the desire for it to last forever, painting a vivid picture of being lost in the beauty of the present, amplified by the power of music and shared connection.

And finally, YOO TAEYANG’s penned track “Melodrama” closes the album on a high note, delivering a dramatic and emotionally charged performance. The song’s powerful vocals, rich backing instrumentals, and gentle beat create a lasting impact, providing the perfect finale to this captivating musical journey.

The album’s title, FANTASY, serves as a beautiful tribute to its fans. SF9 expressed in a recent interview on Naver that they intentionally chose the name of the fandom for this album to emphasize their deep appreciation for their supporters. This heartfelt gesture adds an extra layer of warmth and sincerity to the entire project.

SF9’s dedication to this comeback is evident not only in the quality of the music but also in their active engagement with fans. They’ve flooded social media with behind-the-scenes peeks, fun dance challenges, and relatable, trendy reels, creating a palpable sense of connection and excitement within FANTASY.

FANTASY marks the beginning of an exhilarating new era for SF9, showcasing not only their remarkable growth as artists but also their unwavering passion and deep love for their fans. It’s a long-awaited summer dream come true, filled with infectious energy, heartfelt emotions, and a touch of magic. Whether you’re a dedicated FANTASY or new to SF9’s music, this album is sure to leave you smiling, inspired, and eagerly anticipating what this talented group will bring next.