Buried Treasure: NEXZ – Appetite

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. Sometimes you just have to give into the trends of the times and find material that works for you. It’s clear that chanted choruses are all the rage in K-pop these days and although I will always prefer a more well-developed melodic hook, there are a few acts I can usually count on to make the chanting work. One of these acts is NEXZ, whose colorful — at times downright zany — sound is enjoyable enough to make up for its lack of melody. Title track Saucin’ fits into this category, but I actually like b-side Appetite even more. It feels like a spiritual successor to the brilliant Mmchk from earlier in the year, except not quite as dynamic or sonically diverse. One thing Appetite has going for it is its fantastic production. The instrumental is super engaging in the same way Mmchk‘s was. It’s just freewheeling, fast moving energy. And, the song’s spoken hook matches the rhythm perfectly. Hooks 8 Product...