Song Review: RIIZE – Combo

Today marks a year since RIIZE’s debut, celebrated with special epilogue single Combo. Rather than making several distinct comebacks, the past twelve months have seen the group gradually build their debut mini album. Their music may not have a distinct genre focus, but they’ve managed to traverse a variety of sounds with panache. It’s hard to imagine a more successful debut year, at least when it comes to the music.

Combo was first teased months ago in an album trailer. The song pushes against K-pop’s usual musical grain, opting for a grungy 90’s alt-rock sound. Other boy groups have successfully harnessed this genre before, though few have delved so deeply into the angst-ridden performance style found here. I doubt whether Combo will have the same cross-audience appeal as tracks like Love 119 or Boom Boom Bass, but its specificity is appreciated.

Even more appreciated is Combo‘s focus on vocal melody. We get to hear RIIZE as we never have before — at times confrontational and clearly out of their comfort zone. Sohee continues to prove his worth as a fifth gen vocal superstar, but every member leaves an impression. I wish the production went even bigger and bolder, matching the guys’ energy during Combo‘s go-for-broke chorus. Crunchier guitar and more bombastic percussion could have sent this over the edge, but as far as anniversary singles go Combo is unexpected and exciting.

Grade: B