K-Pop sextet (G)I-DLE’s third mini album boasts powerful music and a bold soundscape that sets up the ascent of the group’s ever-expanding international reach.
Released earlier in April on Polydor Records, 'I trust' plays on themes of self-assurance, self-confidence and the journey of learning to trust oneself. The record is the third on the group’s “I” series, preceded by debut album 'I am' and their second EP 'I made'.
Opening with ‘Oh my god’, with its English lyrics’ version bookending the five-track EP, it’s immediately clear that isn’t playing around. Sultry, sexy vocals and power packed rap verses layer over a groovy, R&B-infused instrumental – immediately warranting multiple replays.
The six-piece doesn’t let up on the high energy delivery with follow-up track ‘Luv U’, an electro-tinged offering hinged on its catchy chorus and a soundscape that swings effortlessly between slow and hazy pop to trap-influenced dance music.
'I trust' is five tracks of fierce confidence and fantastic music, but the undeniable stand-out of the production is ‘LION’. Showcasing strong vocals encompassed in an anthemic soundscape, the track is one of the best offerings to have come out of the K-pop scene in recent times as it leaves behind the chase of a commercial sound instead honing into the group’s impressive musical range.
In 2019, (G)I-DLE reached unparalleled heights ignited by I made and the standout single ‘Senorita, following which’ LION,’- which trended on Twitter for the first three days after release, spending four weeks on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales Chart – alongside the rest of I trust went on to gain critical acclaim – and this only the beginning for the sensational group, who first gained fame on Mnet’s American Idol-esque show Queendom.
The group – consisting of Miyeon, Minnie, Soojin, Soyeon, Yuqi, and Shuhua – has gone from strength to strength since their debut on May 2nd, 2018, and a single play through the 15-minute long track list of 'I trust' is enough to explain the talent and charm that has made the group such a fan favourite.
fComing up on their second anniversary, (G)I-DLE has already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in K-pop and beyond. Now they’re set to take on the world with their bold sound, 'I trust' only being a sample of the big things to come for the group.
8/10
Words: Malvika Padin
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