Baekhyun – ‘Hiya, World’ evaluation: an unfettered re-introduction

The phrase “Hiya, world” embodies a contemporary, wide-eyed optimism (and could be nostalgic for individuals who’ve ever written their first pc code), as if saying: “I’m right here! Able to expertise all the pieces anew!” In an analogous vein, Baekhyun’s new mini-album ‘Hiya, World’ carries a way of freedom and self-assurance, along with his life having modified by leagues since his final challenge, ‘Bambi’, got here out over three years in the past.

Within the trailer for ‘Hiya, World’, Baekhyun is thrust by way of cinematic sequences impressed by varied genres, mired in confusion and topic to horrors till the sound of a clapboard snaps him again into the actual world. Seems, he’s an actor enjoying out varied fantasies written by, effectively, himself. A quiet, but chic method of assuring his followers – and maybe himself – that he’s in command of his narrative now, and it doesn’t matter what he’s subjected to, his story is his personal to jot down.

The tracks on the mini-album thus not solely introduce Baekhyun as a creator, but in addition Baekhyun as a person, flaws and all. The euphoria of this newfound freedom interprets into lush layering on the tracks, all banding collectively to make immersive microcosms. Versus his earlier releases, which leaned in the direction of the darkish, minimal and mysterious, Baekhyun nourishes the songs on ‘Hiya, World’ with ad-libs and harmonies aplenty, resulting in a lusher sound total.

On the opening observe ‘Good Morning’ – his proverbial re-introduction to the world – he’s the epitome of laid-back, as if hop-skipping his method by way of life. Co-writer Colde’s trademark mellow sound slots in completely with Baekhyun’s easygoing vocals, easing the listener into the album. Equally, ‘Rendez-Vous’ is replete with harmonies of Baekhyun’s voice, weaving seamlessly between piano and a bossa nova development. He retains a good rein on his vocal work, letting the pauses hold slightly longer and the melodies linger.

‘Hiya, World’ displays the music that fits Baekhyun greatest: sultry and laced with playfulness and occasional craving. The title observe ‘Pineapple Slice’ demonstrates this completely. His plush voice tethers the tune, with bass and synths including a riotous kick to the progressions – candy with a noticeable tang, just like the fruit it’s named after. The sensation is harking back to ‘Sweet’, though ‘Pineapple Slice’ has a definitive fringe of longing when in comparison with the bravado of the previous.

The most effective instance, nevertheless, is the album’s closing observe ‘Reality Be Advised’, the place Baekhyun breaks up languish supply with brisk, tense rap, mirroring the inside turmoil of somebody about to convey a relationship to a detailed. Over a darkish R&B association, he retains the listener on their toes, constructing anticipation with layered harmonies earlier than bringing the tune to a satisfying shut.

Though not with out its fumbles – ‘Woo’ and ‘Chilly Coronary heart’ take too lengthy to construct up and thus fizzle out – ‘Hiya, World’ is the sound of Baekhyun unfettered. The melting pot of vibes, preparations and beneficiant layerings present a buoyancy attribute of the singer, whereas nonetheless rooted within the sound he’s come to be recognized for. Identical to the phrase it’s impressed by, ‘Hiya, World’ is just step one in an extended journey for the idol.

Particulars

• Report label: INB100
• Launch date: September 6, 2024