MUSIC

AB6IX Is Funky Fresh in Latest Comeback ‘CHERRY’

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Fans are not ready to dive headfirst into what seems to be one of AB6IX’s brightest and cutest concepts so far. Unlike other groups, AB6IX has been steadily alternating between full-length albums, singles, and EPs for each comeback. Their discography has a wide variety of songs from different genres and themes. On September 27, AB6IX dropped their latest album MO’ COMPLETE, which includes ten unique songs.

The group’s main promotional track is titled “CHERRY” which showcases a bubbly, retro vibe through the music video’s cinematography and funky melody. The song is a mix of modern pop and retro throwbacks. There are also a few references to 80s and 90s fashion trends with the suit and bomber jacket phase.

When analyzing details and background elements in the “CHERRY” music video, the members hang around old-fashioned diners and malls with bright neon signs. It is obvious what their company (BRANDNEW MUSIC) aimed to do with this release, but the song only slightly brings attention to that retro feel. Instead, the members’ bright voices make the song more pop-leaning with a dance-worthy leading melody that carries the whole track.

AB6IX is a unique group all in itself due to their ability to pull off almost any concept thrown their way. They even entered the K-pop scene with an electro/dream-pop debut that stood out among their 4th Generation competitors at the time. Despite being willing to stand out, the group seems to have gone under the radar for a little more than a year, being slightly washed out by larger acts such as Stray Kids or TXT (Tomorrow X Together). 

BRANDNEW MUSIC manages a variety of different artists, but their two most popular groups are AB6IX and BDC. AB6IX created quite a ruckus in 2019 when their debut was announced since it included former Wanna One members Lee Dae Hwi and Park Woo Jin, as well as former MXM member Kim Dong Hyun and ex-YG trainee Jeon Woong. After “BREATHE” dropped, K-pop fans far and wide came to support the group’s ultimate lineup of talented singers, dancers, and rappers.

Unfortunately, only a select number of boy and girl groups began to stick out once K-pop reached the peak of the 4th Generation period. Nevertheless, AB6IX continues to have a supportive fanbase who cheers them on when they appear on music shows or special concerts such as the K-pop Superfest in June.

“CHERRY” is an overall bright and bubbly song with many unique bits that stand out against other current boy group tracks. Its style is a mix of many genres that add to the flavorful sound. In addition, the boys can pull off this concept as if it were second nature, giving every ounce of energy into the performance with gleaming smiles. The song consistently delivers its cheerful attitude, refusing to succumb to the pre-chorus drag that many songs are sucked into nowadays.

“CHERRY” is also accompanied by an addictive bassline, a mix of different synths, and a peeping rhythmic guitar that adds to the flow of the track. This warmth is something fans want to hear as the summer comes to a close and winter concepts start to kick in. It acts as both a last hurrah to those fleeting days, but also an embrace to autumnal vibes with its mostly warm color palette and easy-listening melody.

Watch out for more AB6IX content coming this way with Korean music show performances, online special appearances, and interview after interview. They are also constantly active on their Instagram and Twitter accounts.