NCT 127 is back, ready to outdo themselves once more with their new album ‘WALK’. Showcasing their signature NEO factor and unique ability to mix genres, this release promises to deliver some unforgettable bops. Let’s dive in!
WALK
Kicking off the album is ‘Intro: Wall to Wall’, featuring insane hip-hop beats mixed with gospel-like instrumentals. The track boasts impressive rapping, solid and soulful singing, and a uniqueness that perfectly introduces listeners to NCT 127’s core sound.
The title track ‘Walk‘ comes along with hip-hop beats and an arrangement that gives off early 2000s vibes. This song is chill and vibey, with the members delivering sick verses and killing it with insane singing. The music video only adds more to the vibes in this song with tight dance sequences, and the members showing their charisma and effortlessly cool flow.
‘No Clue’ blends hip-hop, soul, and funk, starting with awesome rap verses by Mark and Taeyong and seamlessly transitioning into beautiful melodies and powerful ad-libs by the vocal line. The constant tempo changes and beat drops create a smooth, unique listening experience.
‘Orange Soul’ brings jazzy instrumentals and lo-fi beats, featuring fantastic sectioning and a saxophone that makes the vocal line shine with great harmonies and ad-libs.
‘Pricey’ introduces bouncy beats and lovely piano instrumentals, delivering a fresh, modern, and sharp track. ‘Time Capsule’ follows, showcasing the softer side of NCT 127 in a lovely medium-tempo pop single with dreamy instrumentals and warm melodies. The bridge with Yuta, Jungwoo, and Doyoung’s ad-libs creates a magical listening experience.
The New Era of NCT 127
The second half of the album begins with ‘Can’t Help Myself’, mixing nostalgia with EDM in a unique blend that feels like emotional whiplash. Produced by KENZIE, this track highlights NCT 127’s vocal power with flawless transitions, ad-libs, high notes, and a spoken section by Johnny that adds the cherry on top.
‘Rain Drop‘ takes over with an insane mix of R&B and Hip-Hop, adding layers of mystery to this single. Jaehyun’s breathy rapping is something we did not expect but indeed loved, and the sudden tempo change for the bridge was perfection, with a solid build-up and a very satisfying drop.
‘Gas’ takes over with hip-hop and trap elements, featuring heavy bass and a super sick mix of beats that make it a very alternative but very NEO listen.
An acoustic guitar riff opens ‘Suddenly’ and remains throughout the track. The build-up is surprising and engaging, with excellent use of silences and instrumental additions that make it a solid listen.
The album concludes with ‘Meaning of Love’, showcasing a sweet side of NCT 127 with beautiful melodies, harmonies, and playful instrumentals that will leave listeners smitten.
NCT 127’s ‘WALK’ is an album full of surprises, highlighting what makes the NEOS so special: their ability to mix genres seamlessly and make each blend feel natural and fresh. Until we see our beloved OT9 together again, make sure to listen to this fantastic release.
