IZ*ONE’s “La Vie en Rose” Song: A Budding Debut with Room to Bloom

IZONE emerged from the Produce 48 survival show, inheriting the immense shadow cast by the Produce 101 franchise. While the format’s initial novelty has arguably waned, occasionally, a track surfaces that reminds us of its potential for producing compelling K-pop. Despite the high bar set by predecessors and a sense of Produce fatigue, the debut of IZONE with “La Vie en Rose” song garnered significant attention.

IZ*ONE members in 'La Vie en Rose' music video, showcasing their debut concept

Initially, “La Vie en Rose” sparks intrigue. The song opens with an atmospheric layering of synths and a delicate plucked guitar, or perhaps harp, creating an air of sophisticated mystery. The verses carry a rhythmic drive reminiscent of the production style often associated with Brave Brothers, known for their impactful K-pop tracks. This momentum builds effectively into a pre-chorus that noticeably elevates the energy, promising a dynamic and memorable chorus to follow. The vocal performances throughout these sections are strong, further amplifying expectations for a powerful hook.

However, it is in the crucial chorus that “La Vie en Rose” unfortunately falters. Instead of delivering the anticipated impactful melody, the instrumental track recedes, leaving a somewhat underwhelming and thin melodic phrase. This segment feels less like a central hook and more like a musical afterthought, disrupting the otherwise promising trajectory of the song. This lack of a strong focal point weakens the overall impact of “La Vie en Rose,” even though its individual components show considerable merit.

Despite this central drawback, “La Vie en Rose” presents several positive aspects. Notably, the song exhibits a level of refinement and polish significantly greater than the debut track of IOI, another Produce 101 group. Furthermore, the members of IZONE demonstrate a commendable synergy, suggesting a cohesive group dynamic right from their debut. While “La Vie en Rose” might not be the immediate knockout punch akin to Energetic by Wanna One, or Very Very Very by IOI, it lays a solid foundation. It hints at the potential for IZONE to evolve and deliver a truly definitive track in their discography as their career progresses.