[Album Review] EVNNE ‘RIDE or DIE’
The seven-member boy group, EVNNE, have released six new songs for their fans, ENNVE, ahead of their North American tour.
With their third mini-album, RIDE or DIE, EVNNE wants to highlight the bond they have created with fans and show off their passion for success in the music industry.
The group, consisting of Keita, Hanbin, Jeonghyeon, Seungeon, Yunseo, Junghyun, and Jihoo, have already proven themselves through survival shows. Many of the boys will be familiar to fans of the iconic show BOYS PLANET.
The RIDE or DIE EP kicks off with the main single, “Badder Love” — a refreshing track perfect for the incoming hot weather. The youthful concept matched with the steady drum beat and light vocals make the song exciting and impossible to stop listening to.
The energetic music video corresponding with “Badder Love” shows the group hanging out with each other in the sun, marrying perfectly with the invigorating instrumentals. Their dynamic choreography is sure to stun fans when EVNNE take to the stage for promotions and concerts.
After their successful tour in Asia in May, which graced cities across the continent from Seoul to Osaka and Bangkok, EVNNE will be tackling North America and treating fans to delightful performances. In preparation for this, the boys have released an English version of their title track.
Main Vocalist, Seungeon said: “We’ve practised English a lot, and you can check out the result by listening to the English version of our title track ‘Badder Love’.”
This English version of “Badder Love” will allow EVNNE and North American ENNVE to sing together, which is sure to forge an even stronger bond between the band and their devoted fans.
EVNNE take a slower approach with the second track, “I <3 U”. The jazzy bass line and acapella adlibs used in the song’s instrumentals paired with the members’ sweet vocals allow the track to soothe listeners.
This break doesn't last long with “XO” throwing fans into a fast-paced track. The drum and bass instrumentals when layered with the group’s beautifully soft vocals make “XO” a standout song on the EP.
As the group’s leader, Keita took part in writing the lyrics for the track, “XO” is all the more special: “It’s a night when your eyes shine especially bright / Getting closer so you can’t miss me / Trust where your heart pulls you / Tell me, yes, no, choose, X-O”.
For ballad lovers, EVNNE has you covered. “2X” is a charming acoustic track. Its piano instrumentals and snazzy electric guitar riff will send you into a state of relaxation. Let “2X” wash over as you listen to its meaningful lyrics: “You always help me overcome my fears / You make all my tears disappear / You fill my emptiness / You clear my complicated mind / When you smile at me / It feels like a different world.” The song is easily repeatable and is guaranteed to calm ENNVE whenever needed.
The final track on the EP is “Boom Bari”. The song has an RnB feel to it with its light synths and stripped-back approach to an upbeat track. Despite its more simple instrumentals, “Boom Bari” is sure to have you dancing around your room.
From ballads to RnB, RIDE or DIE shows off every facet of EVNNE’s talents. The EP will definitely help to build up excitement for their upcoming North American tour and provide the members with new songs to perform for ENNVE.
Edited by Chelsea Cheetham.