(G)I-DLE might have been an unconventional name, but it was always synonymous with the group. It meant that as the group’s anniversary got closer and the 8th mini album was announced, fans were shocked to see the group had rebranded, dropping the (G) to just be i-dle.
If that wasn’t surprising enough, along with an album announcement, the group dropped a surprise release with We are i-dle, re-releasing all their past title tracks without the voice of former member Soojin.
The bold reintroduction of the group’s new name was matched with the bold concept photos for We are. From coffins, bold fashion choices, and sexiness, i-dle was ready to take their crowns for being queens of concepts before the album was even released.
Ahead of the album, the group released their track “Girlfriend” as a taster.
The track was bold and sexy, causing quite a stir with such an “badass” concept. In the video, the members are singing about how a “boy” isn’t worth it, with no fear of using explicit language to depict the song’s narrative. From the video to the melody, it oozes classic European pop vibes, seemingly not looking out of place with tracks known to club goers in the 2000s. In the bridge, the words, “I don’t give a f*ck about love, cause we are i-dle,” is far from the lyrics K-Pop fans are used to, showing the group’s distinct identity of going against standards.
It feels like a female empowerment anthem, letting women take control after experiencing a broken heart.
When the album was officially released, it came with the video for the title track “Good Thing.”
Like many of the previous songs from the group, including “Klaxon” and “Wife,” the song makes use of repetitive English lines: “Baby, I heard you’re a good thing (Mm-mm-mm) It’s really, really, really good.” Constant repetition with the catchy melody makes it stick in your head, and is perfect for the world of short-form videos.
It is worlds away from the group’s debut sound, but “Good Thing” has a nostalgic feel that harks back to second-generation idols. Sometimes K-Pop can seem too serious and rigid when it comes to fitting beauty standards, but i-dle have created a catchy title track that throws caution to the wind and embraces everything weird, wild, and wacky. Combining these points with the balance of members’ voices, from the sweet vocals of Miyeon, Minnie, and Shuhua to the gritty raps from Soyeon and Yuqi, it created something with many layers and far from “basic.” The song won’t be for everyone, but it is a breath of fresh air amid the “overused” concepts among many idols.
As with the first two tracks, “Love Tease” continues with a nostalgic Europop feel. Written and composed by Yuqi, the track starts with Minnie’s soft voice, which contrasts the rapper’s deep and velvet tone. The heavy bass apparent throughout the song adds different layers to each part of the song, making it perfect for any occasion.
The members’ influence can be heard throughout the album as they all participated in the songs on the album.
“Chain” is the first song that seems to stray away from the nostalgic Europop influence, with composition and lyrics from Minnie. The breathy tones of the members have created something sultry and sexy, and although it seems reminiscent of old (G)I-DLE songs, the track wouldn’t seem out of place alongside Minnie’s solo song “Her.” Miyeon is the next member with her song “Unstoppable.” It feels more cinematic than the other tracks. While all the members shine with their vocals, Miyeon definitely takes centre stage with her high notes and ad-libs throughout. Yet, it was composed to give each member a moment in the spotlight. If “Chain” seems like something from a cabaret club, “Unstoppable” could easily be played at a jazz club with its dulcet vibes.
The album ends with the track “If You Want,” written by member Shuhua, making her debut as a songwriter. The track perfectly embodies the beauty of a ballad, and while the other tracks combine different genres with a strong beat, this is pure and angelic, opening with a simple piano melody. It is very easy to listen to, and with subtle changes to the melody throughout, the pace stays mellow with a focus on a sweet melody wrapped with the members’ beautiful voices. It is also the only song with all Korean lyrics, despite Shuhua being Taiwanese, showcasing her talent and ability to create a story with words.
With such a wide range of genres and styles, We are has a song to suit everyone’s tastes. Although the title track might feel like marmite, it emphasises the carefree and unique style of i-dle, a group with so much talent and where the members can be felt in every line and beat.
We Are is out now. i-dle can be found on X here and on all streaming platforms.