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 Review: TVXQ! - Small Talk

The other day, I shuffled the TVXQ playlist and listened for an hour or two. I learned a thing from the listen. The first is how dominant TVXQ has always been. I have made approximate end-of-year lists for every year since their debut, and TVXQ would always (with the exception of their military years) have a song in the top 50. TVXQ's XV album from last year was amazing, and TVXQ were probably my all round favorite artist of 2019. That is why their single 'Gaze' from January was underwhelming. I would enjoy it if it was from another group, but this TVXQ we are talking about, and expectations are always huge. That is why I brushed 'Small Talk' when I first heard it, it does not touch their best material in any way Still, it is a fine song.

The verses provide a dreamy feel (boy have I been saying that a lot recently, is it December?), letting both Changmin (congratulations on his marriage) and Yunho show their vocal skill. The simple acoustic melody builds in-depth to the chorus.

The chorus is an interesting one. The first phase follows the gorgeous vocals harmonizing (with the backing vocals of little kids). The instrumentation is in build, and the melody still does not weaken. This is the best moment in the song so far.

The second phase of the chorus is simply an electronic loop. While I would be fine if a group without a budget resorted to this, this is TVXQ. This group dominated Korea and Japan during its prime. Last year, they were one of the top artists from any country for tour money. Their albums and singles sell like hotcakes. The quality of their singles has never been in doubt. Then why would someone resort to this electronic loop? When it comes to electronic loops, it is fine, but TVXQ deserve better than this. It feels terrible during its second repetition, but it is such a wasted opportunity.

Thankfully, the final chorus is the most dynamic moment in the track. Adding some stadium-ready drums during the first phase, and letting a Changmin high-note and an electronic guitar assist the second phase (why did they not always keep this as the second phase for all repetitions?).

This track is nothing compared to TVXQ's golden era, but that does not mean it's bad. In fact, it makes sure I do not miss the band while waiting for them to release another gem.

Rating: 8.25/10