Release Date: November 7, 2017
Tracklist:
- My Zone
- Shall We Dance
- 일방적이야 (One Sided)
- 이렇게 (Like This) [Vocal Unit]
- Give & Take (B-Bomb Solo)
Total Runtime: 0:16:40
Recommended for: Fans of Block B’s established hip-hop/wild style, or anyone who just wants to let loose to some energetic music.
NOT Recommended for: Those who aren’t fans of Block B’s “noisy” brand of music; those looking for a pop album.
It’s been a long time since Block B has given their fans something to sink their teeth into. Their last mini album, Blooming Period, was released all the way back in April 2016. Since then, the most we’ve gotten from them was the un-promoted single Yesterday and some un-promoted member solos.
All of this, however, changed on November 7, when Block B finally dropped their sixth mini-album Montage. Featuring four new tracks and one Korean version of a Japanese single, Block B has a lot to live up to; their last three singles, HER, Toy, and Yesterday, became smash hits and put them on the map as one of the highest-selling boy groups digitally.
But while these songs are a far cry from the sound Block B debuted with, this album gives us a slight blast from the past, with a title track reminding us of the pounding hip-hop beats that many have come to know as Block B’s style — making this album a more mature version of the classic Block B.
Track 1 – My Zone
Being the Korean version of Block B’s first original Japanese single, My Zone is nothing new to many BBC. But if it’s your first time experiencing My Zone, you’re in luck, for this song is definitely unique in the best way possible. My Zone mixes a superb slap bass with a funky rock guitar, and just when you think you’re listening to a more pop rock track, suddenly you hit a thumping trap breakdown. However, this transition is flawlessly executed, making for an interesting listening experience. While My Zone is a track that may not be liked if you don’t quite have the taste for it, it’s certainly something worth trying.
Track 2 – Shall We Dance
Do you miss the days of 2012 Block B? When every title track was comprised of bold hip-hop beats and a ton of hype? If so, Shall We Dance might be just be your cup of tea. Infusing latin inspired sounds with hip-hop and a bold bass line, Shall We Dance is a mid-tempo banger full of attention-grabbing instrumentals. Shall We Dance satisfies the cravings of their OG fans while still keeping things fresh, even as one of their least public-friendly songs.
Track 3 – 일방적이야 (One Sided)
Intriguing listeners with a fun reggae beat, One Sided is for sure the best OT7 track on this album. Block B has played around with tons of genres, but never have we heard a song quite like this from them, making it a stand out track in their discography. If you need a fun song to jam out to, One Sided might be perfect for you.
Track 4 – 이렇게 (Like This) [Vocal Unit]
Block B’s first ever vocal-unit-only song, Like This is a ballad track that shows off just how talented Block B’s vocal line is. In many cases, Block B’s rap line has a tendency to overshadow the team’s vocalists. Like This, however, has Taeil, Jaehyo, B-Bomb, and U-Kwon demanding the spotlight. And rightfully so; their voices are all distinctly different from each other and pleasant to hear. But sadly, this song falls short in more ways then it excels. Like This has an incredibly stereotypical Korean ballad sound, almost to the point where it feels like you’ve heard it a million times over. To be frank, it’s quite bland. Block B is a group that has a wonderful way of testing the waters and pushing the envelope when it comes to their music. But with this track, they played it far too safe. If they want to put a vocal unit ballad on an album, they’ve got to spice it up a bit more, especially when the rest of the album’s songs are unique and could easily stand alone as singles.
Track 5 – Give & Take (B-Bomb Solo)
In a sea of solo songs from well-known members such as Zico and Kyung, it’s easy to forget that the majority of Block B have released solo tracks as well. Earlier this year, we saw Taeil and P.O drop new songs, and now, B-Bomb joins the rank of self-producing soloists in Block B. It’s a good thing he has, too, because Give & Take might just be the best song on this album. It’s nearly impossible not to succumb to that sexy, R&B vibe and that little strum of guitar. Give & Take represent’s B-Bomb’s style perfectly – a style that he never gets to show off with Block B. But if Block B ever decides to take on some sensual rhythm and blues, B-Bomb would be the member shining the most among all seven; and this song is a testament to that.
