Song Review: Jay Chang – LaSalle Ave

Jay Chang has had quite a varied idol career so far. First appearing on Boys Planet, he later debuted with boy group One Pact. Then, he participated in another survival series (Build Up) and debuted with its winning project group B.D.U. That contract took him away from One Pact’s recent comeback. All the while, he’s also been fostering a solo career. I’m exhausted just typing this.

LaSalle Ave comes from his second mini album and takes advantage of his soulful vocals. It’s much more rooted in American soul music than K-pop, and Chang does a credible job with the genre. I could imagine playing this on a lazy Sunday morning. In fact, it even interpolates The Commodores’ Easy. It’s groovy enough enough to bounce along to, but also relaxed In its execution. But personally, LaSalle Ave feels more like a background track than something I’d actively listen to in the forefront. The song could do with a more unique set of melodies that truly embrace the production’s swinging rhythm. As usual, Chang’s warm, open-hearted performance elevates the material.

Grade: C