Song Review: xikers – Witch

I’ve been hot and cold on xikers’ music so far, usually finding at least one b-side I enjoy but often wishing their title tracks went a different direction. Making matters worse, I found the preview of new single Witch (위치) the least compelling clip on their album’s highlight medley, forgoing their freewheeling rock energy for something darker and more hulking.

We’re approaching spooky season, and Witch will be right at home during the month of October. The song opens with a horror show instrumental, setting the tone for the group’s most theatrical track yet. The rest of Witch feels much more traditionally K-pop than their previous work, down to the music video’s second-gen “box” set. Xikers are clearly capable of pulling off this conceptual switch, but a stronger song would have made the transformation more engaging.

As a group who lean heavily into hip-hop, Witch finds a new way to showcase that skill. It’s primarily rapped, but with lumbering phrasing that gives it an aggressive energy. Coupled with thick synth flourishes, the track feels both claustrophobic and commanding. The chorus is more melodic, though xikers’ performance is often perched somewhere between shouting and singing. I don’t find any of the song’s hooks particularly pleasant, but they succeed in creating a specific vibe. I imagine fans more inclined toward this sound will find plenty to love. Meanwhile, I’ll be scouring the album for music that hits the way my favorite xikers tracks have.

Grade: C