[Album Review] FANTASY (14th Mini Album) – SF9

10 hours ago 3

In August 2024, SF9 made their comeback with the single Don’t Worry, Be Happy and their 14th mini-album FANTASY. The mini-album is on the shorter side, with just 5 songs (including the title track). Like usual, all my thoughts on the title and side tracks can be found down below.

FANTASY was their first release since January 2024 – their 13th mini-album, SEQUENCE, which featured BIBORA as the title track.

1. Don’t Worry, Be Happy (Title Track) – Click here for the full review for Don’t Worry, Be Happy. (7.5/10)

2. Cruel Love – I really enjoyed the sophisticated vibe of Cruel Love—it’s a smooth dance-pop track with a lot going for it. The vocals and rapping both feel polished and classy, and the melodies are catchy in a subtle, pleasant way. You can really feel the members’ emotions come through, which adds depth. The guitar is a constant throughout Cruel Love—it’s an alluring touch that holds everything together, even when other parts of the instrumental drop out. (9/10)

3. Just (그냥) – SF9 goes softer and more mellow, but all in a sensual way, in Just. I liked the venture into R&B, which just draws you in and captivates. The vocalists do a great job of bringing a mature, refined tone to the song, while the rappers add just the right amount of edge to keep things interesting and balanced. Just’s hooks are also catchy, making it a strong song from SF9. (9/10)

4. My Fantasia – FANTASY (the mini-album) changes gears with My Fantasia leaning into funky territory. It’s upbeat and energetic, a definite change in pace for this mini-album. The retro funky elements in the instrumental bring on so much texture, making this track exciting. The vocals and rapping are fine, though I found the melodies and hooks to be slightly lacking. (7.5/10)

5. Melodrama – If you want a chill track to kick back to, Melodrama might be the song for you. This alternative R&B track with retro touches just feels heavenly after my long day today. Everything, ranging from the brassy instrumentation, vocals, rapping and melodies, was all easy-on-the-ears. But I love how each of these contributed to Melodrama’s golden feel. (8/10)