[Review] DRIP – BABYMONSTER

As mentioned in my review of BABYMONSTER’s CLIK CLAK, I would soon return to review the second title track from their recent comeback with their first studio album, DRIP. The song is also titled DRIP and is the focus of this post. Previously, the group pre-released the single FOREVER in July of this year and is featured on the DRIP studio album.

In my opinion, DRIP is a far superior track to the other BABYMONSTER song (CLIK CLAK) that also leads this comeback. Most of DRIP (i.e., the verses) was quite good, making for BABYMONSTER’s best effort yet, in my opinion. Had this been the material they debuted with, BABYMONSTER would have made it on my radar as a rookie to look out for. The vocal work in DRIP was unexpectedly great. AHYEON’s high note towards the end of DRIP was spectacular, and the pre-choruses just ooze charisma. Even the rapping had me thinking ‘badass’ and ‘edgy’, new thoughts on BABYMONSTER. However, DRIP‘s weakest element is its choruses. It feels distinct from the rest of DRIP, steering the song differently and cutting the trajectory the verses built. I put this down to the heaviness of the chorus elements (i.e., instrumentation and textural vocals). The hooks were plain and lacked innovation. Put all of this together, and you have a centrepiece that was a letdown and didn’t continue the excitement I got from DRIP‘s verses. Even the added oomph to the final chorus territory of DRIP didn’t change my mind (and this, on occasion, would win me over).

The music video depicts BABYMONSTER making an entrance, going big and viral, and being covered on the news. They even started mass-producing the cassette tape for their DRIP album. The idea is a little cringy in my books, but I liked its presentation. After all, this is a YG Entertainment music video. I did like the edgy vibe the members were showcasing through their outfits. My favourite moment happened to be the cameraperson’s reaction to ASA’s rap during the live new broadcast – definitely going off script compared to what was on the teleprompter.

The choreography for this comeback was all right. I don’t find it as mind-blowing or impressive as other people might have. I liked the body shaking while the members delivered the song’s main hook, but the rest of the routine looked a little too pretty or awkward for my taste.

Song – 7.5/10
Music Video –
Performance – 6.5/10
Overall Rating –