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[Review] CHUNGHA - BE YOURSELF

Before the arrival of Chungha’s first full-length album, we are once again blessed by VINCENZO with another bop following “Stay Tonight.” Though “Be Yourself” is essentially an ad for Sprite in Korea, it is able to present itself as a solid candidate for the “summer anthem" in 2020. “Be Yourself” can be messy at some times, but Chungha’s airy vocal pierces through this complex kaleidoscope of sounds. The most enjoyable moment is perhaps the post-chorus, where the influence of the tropical backbone starts to fade and straight-forward pop starts taking over the scene. This particular production choice seems to be quite popular which a tropical drop precedes the actual highlight of the song (similar to WJSN’s "As You Wish"). -

The addition of ad-lib brass synth throughout the song is definitely welcomed, especially when the brass becomes more prominent in the bridge section and the last chorus. The texture of the brass synth kinda reminds me of Lady Gaga’s “The Edge of the Glory,” but the only critique is perhaps if the brass synth could be replaced by real brass instead. This will definitely bring out more the jazzy/funky side of the song, and, in my opinion, the direction of the song that it should have aimed for. 

Time will tell if Chungha is able to secure the throne for “K-Pop Summer Queen.” At this moment, Chungha only showed us glimpses of her promising sound that she could offer, and perhaps a slight push out of her comfort zone is all Chungha needed. 

Musicality: 8.25/10 
Quality: 8.5/10 
Bias: 8.75/10


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