[Review] LIKE YOU BETTER – fromis_9

During their last comeback with Supersonic, fromis_9 had an 8-member lineup. However, their contracts with Pledis Entertainment expired at the end of last year, and three members (Lee Saerom, Lee Seoyeon, and Roh Jisun) chose not to continue with fromis_9. The remaining 5 members decided to continue as a fromis_9, signing on with ASND and releasing their 6th mini-album, From Our 20’s, and the single LIKE YOU BETTER.

fromis_9 comes through at the end of the first half of the year with LIKE YOU BETTER. And even though it’s only been out for a little over a day, it’s already shaping up to be a hit for me. What I like about LIKE YOU BETTER in particular is its bolder and more in-your-face sound compared to some of their past releases. I loved the explosive chorus, the pop-driven melody, those shouty vocals that really boost the energy, and the super catchy but straightforward “I like you better” hook. I do think the second half of the chorus could’ve flowed a bit more smoothly from the first, but it still works. What I also liked in LIKE YOU BETTER is the pop instrumental. It’s super upbeat and feels refreshing, making it perfect for the summery season. The vocals are another highlight, particularly the layering of the bridge and the extra oomph they give to the final part of the song. The only downside for me was the rap part, which just didn’t quite fit with the rest of LIKE YOU BETTER for me. But that’s a small thing in what’s otherwise a fantastic track.

The music video features the group’s single suitcase being stolen, and they embark on a quest to retrieve it. But they also take advantage of the situation and make the most out of the trip. It is odd that the suitcase ends up in a claw machine, of all places, and is eventually thrown out by the members (though they do retrieve it for a change of clothes). I enjoyed the fact that they were outdoors and weren’t confined to a studio (as that was the case for some of their more recent videos), and I liked how the video embraces those summery vibes.

For the performance, I liked how the routine and the members themselves complemented the energy that the song exuded. I also liked how the audience embraced the liveliness, as this is a perfect song to sing along (or shout) to the hooks. I particularly enjoyed the moves that accompanied the second half of the chorus (i.e., the “Woahs“), as well.

Song – 9.5/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8/10
Overall Rating – 8.8/10