One of the most awaited debuts of the year is here, and fans around the world were looking forward to this release.
ZEROBASEONE (ZB1) is a 9-member boy project group formed through MNET’s competition shows Boys Planet. The final line-up consist of Sung Han Bin, Kim Ji Woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, Kim Tae Rae, Ricky, Kim Gyu Vin, Park Gun Wook, and Han Yu Jin.
Their debut mini-album ‘YOUTH IN THE SHADE‘ includes six singles. Let’s dive right into it.
YOUTH IN THE SHADE
We start off strong with ‘Back to ZEROBASE‘, this single has a fantastic EDM arrangement, with heavy British electro music vibes. The vocal layering, harmonies and beat drops are super dope and make this song a total trip to listen to. Definitely a solid way to start this release.
The title track ‘In Bloom‘ follows up with a lovely mix of instrumental and beats, this single incorporated part of the beat of the A-Ha’s classic ‘Take On Me’, to elevate its vibe even more. The ad-libs in this single are incredible, the vocals absolutely charming, and rapping in the bridge just amazing. A SOLID TITLE TRACK.
The summer filter is present in their music video, and we get to see the members in a soft botanic concept and a more urban and youthful one. This full production is peak aesthetics, and all the members look amazing. Watch it below.
‘New Kidz on the Block‘ follow up with a more urban style with groovy bass, a catchy melody and drums, this song is a very fun listen that will have listeners totally jamming to it.
Peak vocals open up ‘And I‘ and continue to delight listeners in a great pop arrangement. The little instrumental addition for the rap section and change of rhythms are really good, refreshing and kinda funky too. The R&B bridge however took it all with the vocal plays and ad-libs. What a song!
With a more playful style ‘Our Season‘ takes over in a medium-tempo pop single and amazing harmonies, the whistling in this track and transitions in between beats, make it even cooler.
Last on this debut mini-album is the single ‘Always‘, this single is the first solo track of Zhang Hao, who ranked first in the show. This single is more R&B driven and definitely give spotlight to his vocal power, and unique tone.
ZB1 delivered and incredible debut mini-album, the members didi an incredible job and shined throughout this entire release. Make sure to listen to this release here.
