KARD’s latest mini-album, Where To Now?: Yellow Light Part One, released on August 13, 2024, marks a significant milestone as they celebrate their seventh anniversary. This seven-track collection signifies a new phase in their musical journey, blending 1980s and 90s vintage influences with contemporary sounds.

The lead single, “Tell My Momma,” captures attention with its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics centered around introducing a special someone to one’s mother. The song features KARD’s trademark smooth rhythms and a catchy chorus that makes it a standout in the album. Visually, the accompanying music video for “Tell My Momma,” filmed in Milan, is also a highlight. The sophisticated setting, combined with KARD’s charismatic performances, enhances the track’s appeal, making it not just a song but a full sensory experience. The video’s polished aesthetic perfectly complements the album’s overall theme of blending past and present influences.

While Where To Now?: Yellow Light Part One demonstrates KARD’s artistic evolution and exploration of new musical territories, it may fall short for some listeners. The 80s/90s-inspired sound, although innovative, occasionally feels superficial and lacks the depth of some of their earlier work. For instance, “Tell My Momma” is undeniably catchy, but may come across as predictable and occasionally feels somewhat superficial, lacking the depth and emotional intensity that fans might expect from KARD that characterized some of their earlier hits like “Bomb Bomb” or “Red Moon”, for example.

One of the album’s strengths is the personal touch brought by BM and J.seph: BM’s role in arranging “Tell My Momma” and another track, “Waste My Time,” underscores his growth as a producer, while lyricist J.seph also makes notable contributions, especially in “Boombox,” where his distinctive rap style adds unique dynamism and energy. “SHIMMY SHIMMY” and “SPIN” are additional tracks that diversify the album’s sonic landscape, even if they also don’t quite deliver the emotional impact that could have elevated the album further.

The album’s heavy use of English lyrics, while catering to an international audience, might not resonate as well with Korean fans who appreciated the group’s bilingual approach. As such, J.seph’s Korean rap provides a unique touch, broadening the album’s appeal to a global audience.

Despite these potential shortcomings, Where To Now?: Yellow Light Part One remains a well-rounded and enjoyable addition to KARD’s discography. The album’s exploration of new genres and sounds is commendable, and it offers a refreshing take on KARD’s music that reaches a broad audience. It successfully balances innovation with the group’s well-established identity, making it a worthwhile listen for both longtime fans and newcomers.

In conclusion, Where To Now?: Yellow Light Part One represents a new direction for KARD, showcasing their artistic growth and versatility. While it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more groundbreaking or emotionally resonant experience, it remains a solid entry in their catalog.

The album offers a polished yet familiar sound, reaffirming the group’s enduring appeal and potential for future musical achievements, even if it may leave some fans yearning for the bold intensity of KARD’s earlier music. Nonetheless, the album’s inventive approach and high-quality production highlight KARD’s commitment to their craft and promise exciting future projects that fans will look forward to.

Where To Now?: Yellow Light Part One is out now. KARD can be found on Instagram here, and on all major streaming platforms.