The excitement from fans of the K-pop girl group Blackpink is palpable as they eagerly await a proper group comeback after three long years. Known as Blinks, the fans have had to remain patient while the members—Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa—explored various solo projects. Even so, the group kept the anticipation alive with the release of the energetic single "Jump" last summer, a hardstyle Eurodance track that fans enthusiastically embraced.
Eight months later, Blackpink has unveiled their third EP titled "Deadline," comprising five tracks, four of which are notably solid hits, including "Jump." While this may seem like a treat, for Blinks, it feels akin to giving an occasional steak to a starving lion, with comebacks being relatively sparse since the group’s debut in 2016.
Unlike many other K-pop bands, Blackpink's infrequent comebacks have made them a distinctive and influential presence in the music scene. Their catchy songs, engaging choreography, and magnetic personalities have catapulted them to unmatched stardom. With "Deadline," the group showcases their energetic style, steering clear of slower ballads except for one, titled "Fxxxboy." Although it features heartfelt lyrics and beautiful vocal performances, the ballad falls short musically due to a simplistic guitar line.
In an unexpected collaboration, Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin contributed to the track "Go," which features an industrial sound enriched by deep bass. His influence is particularly evident during the bridge, where the song shifts to a Coldplay-esque style led by Jennie's vocals. Another track, "Me and My," stands out as a slow R&B jam, complete with an understated Latin jazz trumpet and co-produced by the controversial Dr. Luke. The same producer worked on "Champion," an anthemic rock song that uniquely blends elements from the '70s, '90s smooth rock, and pop-punk.
As globally recognized K-pop artists, Blackpink is gradually experimenting with English lyrics, with "Deadline" being a prime example. Among the tracks, "Jump" is the only one to feature some Korean language, reflecting a strategic move aimed at appealing to international music markets. However, this shift may leave traditionalists apprehensive, fearing that the "K" in K-pop is gradually fading away.
In summary, the mini-album "Deadline" constitutes an enriching addition to Blackpink’s discography. The lyrics of "Champion" encapsulate the album's theme of resilience, emphasizing that even in defeat, the spirit to fight remains strong. Overall, this record is a collection of wins for the group, resonating well with fans and affirming their place in the K-pop landscape.
Overall Rating: Four stars out of five.
On Repeat: "Go"
Skip It: "Fxxxboy"
For Fans Of: Unexpected tempo changes, club music, Coldplay
