P1Harmony, a group I first encountered in the autumn of 2022 around the release of their EP HARMONY : SET IN, has consistently impressed me with their evolving sound and stage presence. It was the lead single “Back Down” from that EP that initially caught my attention, sparking my interest in this dynamic K-Pop group that was generating significant buzz among genre enthusiasts online.
My appreciation deepened in the winter of 2023 when I had the opportunity to photograph and review their Chicago concert during the P1oneer Tour. That electrifying performance solidified my status as a devoted P1ece. Witnessing their energy firsthand, capturing their stage presence through my lens, and feeling the palpable connection they shared with their fans was truly captivating. The memory of the Chicago Theater balcony almost vibrating off its hinges during “Du Du Doom” remains a vivid testament to their powerful impact. Since that unforgettable night, I’ve eagerly anticipated each of P1Harmony’s releases.
HARMONY : ALL IN, which followed SET IN, remains my personal favorite EP from their discography. Its tracks dominated my 2023 Spotify Wrapped, alongside their compelling English single “Fall In Love Again,” a song I consider an underappreciated gem in their repertoire. This year marked a significant milestone with the release of their first full-length album, Killin’ It. This 10-track project showcased not only each member’s diverse talents but also introduced a fresh and innovative sound, challenging conventional notions of K-Pop.
Now, arriving just before my birthday, P1Harmony has gifted us with their latest EP, SAD SONG. Prior to diving into this review, my only preview was hearing a snippet of “WASP” at a K-Pop store. Intrigued, I recognized JONGSEOB’s distinctive presence and knew instantly it was P1Harmony. Now, with the full 7-track mini-album in hand, it’s time for a thorough exploration.
Track-by-Track Exploration of “SAD SONG” EP
“SAD SONG”: An Energetic Anthem
The title track, “SAD SONG,” immediately bursts forth with an unexpected high tempo, defying any preconceived notions of sadness. Anchored by a vibrant Latin mambo beat, the song propels forward with infectious energy. The chorus, led by Keeho’s captivating vocals, offers a momentary shift in pace, creating a dynamic ebb and flow that keeps the listener engaged. “SAD SONG” feels perfectly positioned as a mid-setlist energizer during a live performance. It embodies P1Harmony’s signature musical direction – energetic, dynamic, and undeniably fun. While not entirely surprising in its stylistic choices, it certainly doesn’t disappoint. I’m already anticipating the inevitable dance challenge this track will inspire, though its complexity might prove to be quite demanding.
“It’s Alright”: Groovy and Vocally Driven
“It’s Alright” provides a smooth deceleration, transitioning into a track that immediately evokes a relaxed, confident vibe, perfectly suited for a leisurely “hot girl walk.” While this might be a lighthearted initial impression, the true strength of “It’s Alright” lies in the exceptional vocal and rap performances of the five members. Their individual styles and harmonies blend seamlessly, creating a rich and engaging sonic tapestry that elevates the track beyond its surface simplicity. The focus here is clearly on showcasing the members’ vocal talents, allowing their individual charisma to shine.
“Last Call”: Melancholic Boyband Charm
“Last Call” initially sparked a connection to “Late Night Calls” from Killin’ It, but quickly reveals itself as something different. This guitar-driven track possesses a nostalgic charm reminiscent of western boy bands like One Direction and Big Time Rush. It captures that distinct “Live While We’re Young” energy, evoking a bittersweet blend of happiness and melancholy. For listeners who appreciate this style, “Last Call” is instantly appealing. Within the EP, it emerges as a standout track, possessing the qualities of a perfect encore closer for future tours, leaving the audience with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
“Welcome To”: Intense and Crowd-Engaging
“Welcome To” seamlessly transitions from “Last Call,” yet shifts the tone back towards P1Harmony’s darker, more assertive side, reminiscent of a lighter rendition of “SIREN.” While still guitar-driven, “Welcome To” adopts a more intense and commanding presence. It’s structured with crowd participation in mind, featuring bridges designed for audience interaction – think extended “woes” and vocal call-and-response moments. If “Last Call” is the ideal encore, “Welcome To” firmly establishes itself as a powerful opening track, setting an energetic and engaging atmosphere for a live show.
“All You”: Peppy and Upbeat OST Potential
“All You” exudes a bright and cheerful energy, fitting seamlessly into the realm of Korean drama opening soundtracks. It draws strong parallels to “Love Me for Me” from HARMONY : ALL IN, feeling like a spirited and upbeat sequel to that self-love anthem. “All You” is undeniably cute and fun, possessing a commercial appeal that makes it a strong contender for broader radio play and recognition. Its infectious positivity is hard to resist.
“WASP”: A Confident and Bold Experiment
“WASP” ventures into a sonic territory reminiscent of Travis Scott or contemporary western rap. It showcases a confident and assertive persona from members JONGSEOB and INTAK. However, the track feels somewhat lacking in depth and impact, potentially benefiting from the inclusion of more members to create a fuller sound. While “WASP” might appeal to fans seeking a bolder and more swagger-filled side of P1Harmony, it doesn’t quite achieve a unique or distinctive identity within the current music landscape. It may require further listens to fully appreciate its nuances and find its place within the EP.
“SAD SONG (English Ver.)”: Effortless Translation
The EP concludes with an English version of the title track, “SAD SONG,” and surprisingly, I find myself preferring this rendition over the Korean original. The song translates remarkably well into English, aligning seamlessly with the members’ natural vocal delivery. It almost feels as if the song was originally conceived in English. P1Harmony consistently demonstrates a strength in crafting English versions of their Korean tracks. Unlike many K-Pop English adaptations that can sound awkward or rhythmically disjointed, P1Harmony’s English versions retain the original song’s energy and flow. While I still favor the original Korean versions of “JUMP” and “Fall In Love Again,” their ability to create compelling English counterparts is a notable strength.
Final Thoughts on “SAD SONG” EP
Overall, while SAD SONG might not become my absolute favorite P1Harmony release, it certainly doesn’t diminish their ongoing ascent. Witnessing this group, who recently completed a successful US arena and theater tour, continue to thrive independently, without the backing of Korea’s “Big 3” labels, is truly inspiring. It underscores the power of hard work, talent, and the unwavering support of fans who are always seeking authentic and innovative artists. P1Harmony’s journey is one worth following closely, and SAD SONG is another compelling chapter in their ever-evolving story. I encourage everyone to experience this dynamic EP and join in witnessing P1Harmony’s continued growth and success.
