[Review] Bag Bad Back – RIIZE

RIIZE is also gearing up for a comeback with their first studio album, ODYSSEY, later this month. But ahead of the comeback, the group is teasing us with Bag Bad Back. It is the first comeback from the group since the release of the repackaged version of their first mini-album, Riizing: Epilogue, and the single Combo. It is also the first release following the official withdrawal of SEUNGHAN from the group.

Before I get on with the main parts of the review, I just have one thing to get off my chest – what on earth do they mean by Bag Bad Back? I don’t have the slightest clue. However, according to Soompi, the lyrics “makes a witty comparison between the essentials we carry in our bags and RIIZE’s own drive—their metaphorical bag filled with ambition and a shared vision to grow into shining artists”.

Anyhow, Bag Bad Back is a decent song. However, comparing this hip-hop sound with their previous works, I’d take their previous ’emotional pop’ numbers any day. I just find Bag Bad Back hard to vibe with, and I put it down to personal preference. After all, I have always been more pop-leaning compared to hip-hop. When I break down Bag Bad Back, there is definitely a likable quantity of energy and edge present in Bag Bad Back. I thought the instrumental was rather cool, with a nice simmering underlay that gives the track subtle amount of texture and the piano that kicks in at the bridge was very beautiful. Their vocals and rapping was quite good, though I think I would have liked a stronger and meatier hook in the song. The “Bag Bag Bag” chant felt a little too basic and straightforward for my liking. SOHEE’s high note was great peak for a low-tone song. Separately, I liked the elements. But together, Bag Bad Back doesn’t resonate with me. But I want to emphasis – it is not because the song is bad, but it is because it is simply not my style.

As for the music video, I thought it very cool. It took Bag Bad Back‘s hip-hop sound and translated it well into a visual piece. The video features a bag that represents RIIZE’s ambition, per the lyrics of the song. But for a bag carrying such an important aspect of RIIZE’s career, that bag is definitely not treated as well. It is chucked around a lot. I also liked the dance practice concept, as well as the suited look in the alley. The only thing I am uncertain about is what the accumulating classical instrumentals that concentrates as SOHEE’s delivers his high note represents.

Amazing choreography, with thanks going towards SHOTARO, Lee Bada, J BLAZE, and THE BIPS for choreographing it (this information was also taken from Soompi’s article). I really enjoyed the hip-hop flair that formed part of the routine, as well as the different bag references (backpacks, duffel bags etc) throughout it. II also like it how the moves constantly keep the members on their toes, creating an exciting and energetic routine that shows off RIIZE’s dance capabilities once again.

Song – 8/10
Music Video – 9/10
Performance – 10/10
Overall Rating – 8.7/10