Wednesday, June 22, 2016

[MUSIC VIDEO REVIEW] SISTAR - I Like That (2016)


If there is one thing that cannot be separated from SISTAR, the answer is summer time. This four-member girl group has consistently released new song every summer since their debut.

This year is no exception. On June 21st, SISTAR made a comeback with their fourth mini album called Insane Love. They choose I Like That as the title track for this album.

Based on the teaser, I Like That shows something different from SISTAR past summer releases. No more colorful outfit, beach scenery, and cheerful song. SISTAR is back with more mellow and sultry theme just like what they did with Alone, a song that elevated their career.

How much does I Like That differ from SISTAR previous summer releases? Check out my review below………………………………………………………………..


Since the beginning of the song, we know that I Like That will sound different from their previous summer releases. It has strong drumbeat and saxophone sound that goes all the way throughout the verse. The saxophone sounds heavier, which gives off darker vibe compare to similar sound in previous releases.

The vocal goes well with the verses. Hyorin is great as usual while we finally hear more of Dasom vocal. I like that the vocal and music able to complement each other and capture SISTAR anger to a guy who cheat on them. The verse is basically the best part of I Like That.

The music slows down a bit in the bridge, but the drumbeat is still there. Hyorin and Soyu exchange lines and reassure themselves that they are fine without the guy. I like that this part shows their vulnerability that contrast to their strong verse. Soyu shines the most in I Like That despite having lesser lines. Her husky yet airy voice match well with the anger theme while also gives off a little fragile touch to it.



Then, the drumbeat goes faster along with guitar riff to build up the chorus. The chorus is catchy and you will easily remember it after listening for the first time. Personally, I Like That is one of the few SISTAR songs that grab my attention in the first place

Unfortunately, the second part of the chorus quite disturb the strong dynamic of I Like That. It’s a let down when they decide to only sing one line and let the beat drop.

The rap part on the second verses is also the weakest link of the song. Bora is not the strongest rapper in K-Pop, but her weak flow becomes obvious this time. Her tone suits fun and cheerful song more than this type of song.
Thankfully, the bridge spices up the song again with its harmonization. It’s a nice change to I Like That before it becomes too repetitive.


I Like That Music video is the best SISTAR music video so far. It’s visually stunning from the cinematography, tone, setting, to the styling. The red tone captures the essence of sexy, sultry with a hint of anger.

The shots are great although the constant zooming in dance part is a bit jarring. My favorite shots are during Dasom solo part with lanterns, Soyu solo part with red roses, and during SISTAR part on the bed. It’s beautiful.

SISTAR gorgeous styling also contributed to the visually pleasing music video of I Like That. Their outfits suit the concept and we finally see them has decent outfits after six years of their debut. Still, their choreography is too simple and unchallenging. It’s also interesting to see them having natural black hair color instead of the usual crazy color in K-Pop idols.

The whole concept of I Like That music video seems to be inspired by Chinese and Japanese culture. Those lanterns, architectures, and letters remind me of Chinese culture, but the kimono resembles Japanese one. It’s quite risky for them to take this kind of concept, especially if they kind of hinted brothel setting.



SISTAR tackles classic theme in K-Pop with different approach through I Like That. It has gloomy and sultry vibe, but the song itself doesn’t become sad and melancholic. SISTAR takes a strong approach with its music and lyrics in I Like That. This also accompanied by visually stunning music video that capture SISTAR sexiness well without looking cheap.

I Like That reminds people that SISTAR doesn’t just become a hit after one concept, but they are capable to be more than that in their seasonal release.




Rating:           4/5

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