NCT 127 just dropped their second album ‘Neo Zone’. We were anxiously waiting for this comeback so let’s start this off (be ready for heavy fangirling).
‘Elevator’ kicks off the album, and I had already high expectations for this track after the preview. I loved the synth at the beginning of the song and the smooth transitioning into the base, followed by the vocals. This song is super funky and my highlight has got to be Taeil’s vocals and Doyoung’s ‘uh’.
The title track for this album is ‘Kick it’ and every second of this song goes hard. The concept is strong and catchy. My highlight was the bridge, NCT 127 can never go wrong if they have Haechan, Doyoung, Jaehyun and Taeil vocals in one verse. That combination is FIRE and they know it. Check out the MV and be ready for the visuals.
‘Boom’ is next with a softer and almost R&B style. The transition between the chorus beat drop and the verses is something I did not expect but it worked out so well. I felt that this song was written to appreciate the vocals of the members and I’m here for it.
Next on the list is ‘Pandora’s Box’ giving me all the vibes with the harmonization of the vocal line for the chorus and Johnny’s rapping. I mean, can this song get any better? SM, we need the live version of this track. Thanks.
Lo-fi vibes are included in this release with the song ‘Day Dream’. I love the full rhythm throughout the full track. Jaehyun’s high note was something I didn’t know I was missing in my life, but now everything feels alright.
‘Interlude: Neo Zone’ is next and it starts with acoustics to transition into heavy synth sounds. I feel that this track summarizes NCT 127’s music in a nutshell. It is a bit of everything and it is freaking awesome.
Mark and Taeyong deliver fire in ‘Mad Dog’ with their rapping skills. I didn’t really expect the inclusion of the vocal line for the bridge in such a trap/hip hop inspired track, but it fits just right and takes this song to the next level of greatness.
‘Sit Down!’ is next and this song reminds me a lot of ‘Simon Says’. It has got an electronic experimental sound that goes everywhere but it is also the perfect blend between vocals and rapping. Every second of it is unexpected and a surprise to my ears. Totally loved it.
In a change of mood ‘Love Me Now’ is next with a more happy electronic beat. This song has a refreshing almost summer release style beat that I liked. The vocals are amazing as usual, and it feels like a perfect dance track. ‘Love Song’ is next with a similar style with a lower tempo, and the highlight of this track is definitely the harmonization in the chorus. NCT 127’s vocal line never ceases to surprise me.
Acoustic piano starts ‘White Night’ and I already knew this song would be one of those ballads with a 90’s vibe to listen to on a rainy, almost sad day. ‘Not Alone’ follows it with a similar style.
From these tracks Yuta’s and Jungwoo’s vocals stood out for me. They are super soft and somehow I could clearly picture them singing it.
Closing the album we have the pop ballad ‘Dreams Come True’, and this track is definitely a feel good song. I completely loved the tempo and rhythm in it. It really felt like the ending song of a concert or in this case the album.
‘Neo Zone’ is a release that has got a bit of everything for NCTzens. I could clearly hear each of the members’ vocals, and they had their chance to show off their talent as individuals and also as NCT 127. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for them. In the meanwhile, listen to the full album in the link below.
