[Music Review] THE BOYZ bite back with 9th mini-album ‘TRIGGER’

The 11-member boy band shine as individuals but their strength lies in their powerful group performances.

THE BOYZ ‘TRIGGER’ concept photo. Image: IST_THEBOYZ on X.

Riding off the success of their world tour, ZENERATION II, THE BOYZ are back with their 9th mini-album, TRIGGER. After debuting in 2017 with an exciting and youthful track, the group have tried their hand at many different genres and concepts. From the enigmatic ‘MAVERICK’ to the cute and bright ‘Bloom Bloom’, there seems to be no style of music THE BOYZ can’t pull off. 

TRIGGER showcases a more mature sound for the group with tracks exploring Latin themes and jazzy rhythms. Their fans, The B (pronounced Deobi), are being treated for their loyalty with this six-track album. 

The album starts off with “Bite Back”, a song THE BOYZ have already performed for fans during their world tour. The deep Latin beat throughout the track immediately grabs the listener’s attention and makes it impossible not to enjoy. The ethereal instrumentals during the pre-chorus lull you into a false sense of security before launching into the powerful chorus. 

The staccato delivery of the lines is addictive especially when paired with Lead Dancer Eric’s deep growl that disarms you. The members ooze confidence and come alive with this more mature concept. When you want to make a mark on your audience, “Bite Back” is the perfect way to open an EP.

Watch THE BOYZ ‘Bite Back’ Stage Mix video here.

The album’s title track leaves little room for the listener to breathe with its heavy electronic instrumentals. In spite of being a large group, every member of THE BOYZ has such a commanding presence throughout “TRIGGER”. 

The chant in the post-chorus unites the group as if it is a call to arms: “Break it down, shout it loud / Echoing far away / Take a shot, I show it / We gon’ work it, work it.” The stand out section of the song has to be the bridge which combines two Main Vocalists voices to perfection — Kevin’s light vocals with Sangyeon’s rich and intense high notes will easily overwhelm listeners. 

The music video to accompany “TRIGGER” is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece. The dark and mysterious video sees the group leading a revolution in a derelict futuristic version of Earth. The chaos swirling around the group and the intricate choreography means the music video has to be watched at least a few times over to fully appreciate it. 

It’s almost impossible to not be drawn to watching Main Dancer Q during the dance sections, whether he’s in the centre or not. Q’s precision in every move allows him to embody any choreography given to him and it’s clear that he enjoys the challenge.

Watch the official music video for '“TRIGGER” here.

The fresh and cool “bAd” is exciting to listen to. The track is constantly changing up on its audience mixing rhythmic raps with more soothing vocals. The range of synths and sounds used throughout the track make it interesting to break down over a couple of listens. “bAd” highlights a more playful side of the group that Deobis will not be able to resist. 

The EP takes a slower and sultry turn with “Slip Away”. The use of the double bass throughout the track gives the song a jazzy feel, which is simply addictive. The members’ honey-like vocals pair well with the fresh backing track. However, Main Rapper Sunwoo is still able to showcase his rapping abilities in the vocal-led “Slip Away”. This all-rounder can adapt to any genre thrown at him. 

“Re-Wind” takes listeners back to the 90s with its boy band-esque sound. When matched with the boys’ airy vocals, the funky bassline makes the track relaxing to listen to and its laidback energy allows it to be easily replayable. This change in pace with both the more RnB-focused “Slip Away” and refreshing “Re-Wind” is welcomed after the hard-hitting first half of the EP. 

THE BOYZ ‘Riot’ concept image for ‘TRIGGER’. Image: IST_THEBOYZ on X.

Unlike most K-pop albums that end with a melancholic ballad, THE BOYZ leave Deobis on a high note with the hopeful “They See Me Dream”. The jaunty guitar that can be heard throughout the verses sets a brighter tone for the song. 

Once again, the members’ vocals are allowed to fully shine on the song. The group’s ability to harmonise effortlessly and work well together sets the perfect example for younger artists of how to build each other up equally. The track ends with the line: “There’s something better”, a sweet reminder to fans to keep fighting through difficult times, as there is always light at the end of the tunnel. 

TRIGGER highlights all of the best sides of THE BOYZ. From their powerful performances to each member’s sweet but distinctive vocals, the EP explores a range of genres to showcase the group’s talents. Deobis, both new and old, will be able to find a favourite track out of the six new songs the members have graced us with. 

If you are new to The Boyz, this album might be the perfect introduction to the many facets of the group. 

Edited by Chelsea Cheetham.

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