RIIZE ODYSSEY: In-Depth Album Review – Show Me Love

RIIZE’s new album has a very strong visual element, with music videos or shortened “track videos” for each song. Because of this (and because the album is so strong), I’ll be working through the entire track list over the next few days. Make sure to check back often!

1. Odyssey // 2. Bag Bad Back // 3. Ember To Solar // 4. Fly Up // 5. Show Me Love // 6. Passage // 7. Midnight Mirage // 8. The End Of The Day // 9. Inside My Love // 10. Another Life

SHOW ME LOVE

On most albums, there are two kinds of songs. First, there’s the obvious singles or could-be-singles, most of which are ambitious either melodically or from a production standpoint. Then, there are what I call “connective tissue” songs: those that aren’t quite as ambitious but add texture and context to a project. In many ways, Show Me Love is the perfect ideal of a connective tissue song. It’s straightforward and simple but makes the most out of its sound.

Many tracks on Odyssey recall various eras of boy band hits, and Show Me Love most clearly hearkens back to the 2011-13 era where One Direction reigned supreme. The song’s driving, synth-fueled beat and full-throated melodies unfold effortlessly, crafting a softly anthemic sound that feels like summer. This is top-down, hands-out-the-sunroof road trip music, and we just don’t hear enough of that in K-pop.

This style suits RIIZE like a glove, taking advantage of the youthful tones of their voices. The melody has great range, offering moments of build and payoff that make for a very satisfying chorus. Even the requisite chant-along climax feels at home, as generic as it may be. Show Me Love reinvents no wheels whatsoever, but it’s the perfect bridge between Odyssey‘s distinct halves.

Grade: B+