Double Review: T-ARA - Tika Taka & All-Kill
When it comes to South Korea, few songs can be considered utterly ubiquitous and iconic over 10 years into their life. However, that is the exact situation of T-ARA's classic Roly Poly. The highest-charting Korean single of 2011 stands large over the K-Pop scene and far beyond, years after its release.
However, soon afterward, member Hwayoung accused the group of bullying. While the accusation was proven false, T-ARA's career slowly declined, even though they would have several more mega-hits before hitting a massive hiatus in 2017. Finally, after a long lawsuit over the rights of the group, T-ARA have made their return, with the self-funded single album titled Re:T-ARA. I will review both songs of the album.
Tika Taka
The lead single of the single album, Tika Taka has all the elements of a minor classic but fails due to the pacing. The chorus' electronic production is fun but lacks the lush build and rich emotion of the verses. T-ARA provide a strong performance, even if it is not perfect.
However, just when it seems the song will provide a redeeming climax, the track awkwardly comes to a close, finishing with what should have been the bridge. This awkward ending does hurt the song a good deal.
Rating: 7.75/10
All Kill
All Kill seems to be generally preferred by fans, and also charting better. However, it also suffers from the big issue of Tika Taka, notably the transition between the verses and the chorus. However, both parts work much better here.
The late chorus slow down may not work, but All Kill comes together well, especially with its joyous counter to the classic Day by Day melody.
I'll take any T-ARA content we can get!
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