Kang Daniel is back! The Produce 101 alumni just released his second EP, CYAN with title track 2U on Tuesday, March 24th 2020. It’s Kang Daniel first comeback after a short hiatus due to mental health issues at the end of last year. His break is understandable since 2019 is an exhausting year for him. In the span of one year, Kang Daniel has to deal with the disbandment of his project group Wanna One, a suspension of contract on his former agency, and a dating news with TWICE Jihyo. That’s a lot to process, nevertheless Kang Daniel manages to get a hold of it and finally comeback in the music scene.
2U presents another peek of Kang Daniel’s identity as a solo artist post-Wanna One. What kind of music style and music video concept that he aims for? Check out my review for the title track of CYAN album below…………………
2U proves that sometimes simplicity could turn into something gold. This song actually does not have much going on in terms of music. It only depends on a strong R&B beat and a playful loop that appear throughout the song. However, it has a catchy arrangement, which turns 2U into a solid pop song. There is an easy melody on its verses, a slight build-up on the pre-chorus, and a memorable hook during the chorus part. All of these makes 2U effortless to listen; meaning that it does not force attention.
2U also makes a good use of Kang Daniel’s vocal. The former Wanna One member does not have a strong vocal or a distinct singing style. Thus, this song does not have challenging notes; opting in a safe range which Kang Daniel comfortable to sing to. Still, I wish 2U explores the vocal aspect more because it has potential. Listen to the vocal layering on its pre-chorus, which is a hidden gem that interesting to be played out more.
Kang Daniel might not excel in vocal department, but he has a magnetic screen presence. 2U music video relies heavily on this since it only has a limited setting. Kang Daniel shows his antics as a cleaning service in the cinema who abandon his job to have fun. It’s quite entertaining to see him run and hide from the security throughout the music video. His charm continues on dance scenes, which he makes the choreography easy to watch. I also like the addition of female dancers because it’s kind of refreshing to see a male rookie does not afraid to dance in pair with the opposite sex.
Kang Daniel hits the right spot with 2U, which manages to emphasizes on his strength as a fun performer. The song does not offer something new, yet its simplicity makes it stand out and catchy. Meanwhile, the music video presents Kang Daniel strong screen presences, whether through playing a skit or dancing. Through 2U, Kang Daniel shows that he walks on a promising path as long as he maintains his signature style….and continues to work on his vocal abilities.
Rating: 3.5/5
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