Buried Treasure: ATEEZ – Selfish Waltz

A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.

Though it won’t be topping any personal best-of lists, I must admit ATEEZ’s Ice On My Teeth is getting more play from me than any of their other recent releases. I’m kind of charmed by its stupid lyrics and definitely impressed with the production. However, there’s a stronger musical highlight on the album.

Many listeners have drawn attention to Selfish Waltz – a unique track that draws upon some of the group’s best musical hallmarks. Parts sound a bit like the synthy Take Me Home. Other pieces recall the chugging Cyberpunk. Selfish Waltz isn’t anywhere near as strong as either of those songs, but it’s the best thing the group has recorded since last year’s Silver Light.

I consider Selfish Waltz in two pieces. The first piece consists of the propulsive, synth-dripped verses and initial moments of the chorus. These segments offer some of the most engaging melody ATEEZ has delivered in years, especially as falsetto takes the lead for a slinky hook just before the tempo shifts. The song’s second piece involves this tempo shift. While I’m thankful the drop opts for funky keyboards over requisite trap beats, I’m still disappointed that the producers opted to scale back and pull down the energy rather than let Selfish Waltz build toward a natural climax. But taken as a whole, the track provides a compelling roadmap that the group would be wise to travel on future efforts.

Grade: B