Hola!
Tbh, it’s been a while since my last post. I took a little break from writing here because I started a new job and needed time to adjust. But since CNBLUE is finally back, I had to write about this gem, even if it’s a bit late, considering the album was released on January 7.
And yes… this time it’s a full album. Finally. A full album from CNBLUE after what feels like forever, around 11 years?! The last one was 2gether in 2015. Crazy. Of course, they’re much more mature now, and honestly, I love every single track. The whole album feels like a concert setlist or a live performance, and that makes it even better.
CNBLUE never fails to amaze me (us) with their music. Before the album dropped, they gave us a pre-release, “Still, a Flower”, a soothing and comforting song with such a beautiful meaning. I really loved that they released a lyrics MV for it, made the song feel even more personal.
In the description box, they said the song captures the brilliance of a moment where one rediscovers their own unique fragrance, like a flower blooming once again amid wounds and darkness, even within a cold and unforgiving reality.
Then on release day, we got the “Killer Joy” MV… and wow. I’ll be honest, I was a bit skeptical after seeing the teasers. I thought it would mostly be studio shots, but it turned out really cool. It kind of reminded me of Love Girl… or maybe a mix of Love Girl and Love? Either way, I’m satisfied.
Now let’s talk about the album track by track:
1. Ready, Set, Go!
Such a great way to open the album. It’s upbeat, easy to listen to, and instantly hypes you up. I love the guitar, the drums are so cool, and that “ready, set, go” part in the chorus makes you want to jump. A perfect opening track.
2. Killer Joy
Now I totally get why this is the title track. The arrangement is so good, and you can tell the vocals are not easy to pull off. The melody is catchy but still feels smart and well-crafted, so genius. This song really shows off their skills. I cannot wait to experience it live. The “bang-bang” part is already stuck in my head.
3. Lowkey
The intro is really cool. The moment I heard it, I thought of alternative pop. Jungshin’s part stands out, his sweet voice fits the song so well. I didn’t expect the chorus to go that way, but it’s the kind of song that lifts your mood. Makes me want to dance.
4. To The Moon and Back
This is one of my favorites on the album, along with Still, a Flower and Killer Joy. It’s skillfully crafted and beautifully played. I can hear some soul and jazzy elements too. I’m not a music expert, and maybe this style isn’t something we hear often in K-pop (or maybe my references are just limited 😅), but in the best way possible, I really, really love this song.
5. Bliss
What a calming track. Bliss feels very Western pop-driven, with touches of guitar and synthesizer. It just feels good to listen to. A perfect song to relax to.
6. Still, a Flower
Ugh, I love this song so much. It’s so comforting. A pop-rock ballad that really touches my heart. The chorus is super catchy, and the message “flowers blooming again after darkness and hardship” feels like a gift to fans. Truly beautiful.
7. Again
Written by Yonghwa, Minhyuk, and Jungshin. This ballad really pulls at your heart. I don’t fully understand all the lyrics yet, but it already feels so emotional. I can totally imagine this as a K-drama OST. Also, the vocal range feels long and challenging. It’s definitely not an easy song to sing.
8. The Temperature of Memory
Another song that feels perfect for a drama soundtrack (hehe). It’s really good, and Jungshin participated as both lyricist and composer. The piano really stands out here and sets the mood beautifully.
9. Little Things
This one instantly reminded me of Diamond Girl, in the best way.
10. Anthem of Love
The Korean version of Jinseisanka, which was previously released in Japan. And of course, we can’t forget that iconic drum part. It even went viral because Minhyuk played it with that “rice cooker sound” energy 😂.
Overall, this album truly shows who CNBLUE are, the variety of genres built on a pop-rock foundation, the arrangements, and the way the songs flow from start to finish. It feels complete and thoughtfully made. Honestly, it’s perfect.
I can’t wait to receive my albums, I ordered all three versions. And another highlight of this comeback is the Killer Joy Live Challenge. It’s so fun to watch, especially seeing so many artists participate. Even Jung Hae In joined in, and even though he’s an actor, he’s such a good friend of theirs. The challenge is still ongoing with new videos every day.
My personal favorites so far are Apink’s Eunji and Seo Eunkwang. Eunji as Busan pride and Eunkwang as Yonghwa’s longtime friend… love that connection. Still curious to see who’s next… 👀✨
And on top of all that, CNBLUE will be holding their “3LOGY” concert in Seoul this weekend, followed by a world tour starting in Asia and Australia. I seriously can’t wait.
