TITLE: Fame
ARTIST: Han Seungwoo
LABEL: PLAY M Entertainment
RELEASED: August 10, 2020
I guess this is the summer of the soloists. Since X1 disbanded, we’ve had a lot of content from its members. Now it’s Han Seungwoo’s turn. The leader returned back to his group VICTON, which I was extremely happy for. Now, we’re getting a chance to see what kind of music he can put out alone.
Sacrifice – Title Track
For some reason, I was shocked when I heard his voice. It wasn’t like I don’t know what he sounds like but maybe it’s because I haven’t heard it in this K-Hip Hop and R&B vibe before. Seungwoo has a higher tone than most so his falsetto is nice. The song is a haunting electronic R&B pop track and the stand out for me is the chorus. The hook of sacrifice is addicting and gets stuck in your head. I’m not blown away by the track but it definitely has its moments. As for the MV… marry me. Han Seungwoo, wife me up because I will treat you ALL the way right. I mean, man is gorgeous with a body and face that is mesmerizing. I don’t know what it is, but the way he makes you fall for him and he could just be standing there, is powerful. I couldn’t tell you what the hell the plot of the MV was. There was some cars, questionable hair and clothing choices, but honestly, he could have been standing in a potato sack and I would have thought it was a masterpiece.
Fever
Another R&B track that is a little on the haunting side. It feels more of an intro to Sacrifice in a way. Basically it doesn’t stand out on its own. The difference between the two songs is that Sacrifice has a more catchy hook.
Reply
I really like this one. It showcased how Seungwoo isn’t just a visual and that he can actually spit some bars. The versatility between his raps and vocals all in one song was nice. I almost thought he had a feature on the track with how different his voice is between the two styles. The track is upbeat and another hook that is catchy as hell.
I Just Want Love
Boy I will give you all the love! Out of all the tracks so far, this one is the one I vibe with the most. It is another track that shows how Seungwoo is talented vocally and lyrically. He hit a note post bridge that gave me pause and his adlibs make me want to throw a shoe at him Boy you better get it.
Forest
This track feels like it could be a DEAN track. Speaking of, their tones are in the same wheelhouse that I can see a lot of DEAN influence in the tracks. This haunting ballad in particular. The song doesn’t really go anywhere until the second chorus where the beat comes in and drops with more drums. I can see myself adding this to my chill playlist for sure.
Child
You want me to give you a child? Boy, yes. No? Anyway. Another track where I swore it was a DEAN track. But what I like most about this is the acoustic feel the beginning the song has. Just his voice and a nice guitar riff. By the second chorus, we’ve added a light drum and the song grows. The progression of the song is nice and by the time the bridge kicks in, I’m swaying with a drink in my hand. Let’s vibe.
FINAL THOUGHTS
On a whole, it was a decent debut. There were no fireworks, but honestly, I didn’t expect any. Seungwoo is a visual powerhouse and he is wildly talented, but it makes me wonder if he stands out most when he’s surrounded by others. As a soloist, he would have a nice stint in the KHH and R&B world as DEAN’s lil bro. Their sounds are similar but I’m not saying that in negative to Seungwoo. Just didn’t expect this to come from our VICTON leader. He gave just enough to make me wonder what he has in store for a follow up.
PRODUCTION: 2.5/ 5
VOCALS / RAPPING: 2.5/ 5
VISUALS / CONCEPT: 4.5/ 5
OVERALL: 3/ 5
Least Favorite Track(s): Fever
Favorite Track(s): Reply, I Just Want Love
Unbothered Unnies 