Seventeen released their new album Heng:garae with title track Left & Right on Monday, June 22nd 2020. They settle with their signature bright image this time; showing a 180-degree transformation from last year’s dark and sexy Fear. Left & Right is Seventeen first comeback after Pledis Entertainment acquired by Big Hit Entertainment, BTS and TXT’s agency, in May 2020. Their decision to return with the fun concept gives a sense of relief since fans initially afraid the management change will limit the group creativities.
Much like their previous hits, Left & Right still produced by member Woozi and longtime collaborator Bumzu. Does Seventeen manage to carry the similar magic from the past in Left & Right? Let’s find out on my review below….
Left & Right is a classic Seventeen song. It grabs your attention since the beginning due to its high energy chorus. The boys open the song by singing, “Left and right, left and right”, hook simultaneously, which will stay in your head for a long time. After the addictive chorus, Jeonghan’s vocal comes then the rest of its verse has the usual vocal-rap banter. There’s a touch of funk element through guitar and bass riff, which adds groove to Left & Right.
Meanwhile, the pre-chorus consists of Seventeen’s vocal line belting out high notes. It adds an exciting build-up to its chorus that we already got familiar with since the opening. The song structure is pretty simple and it’s obvious that Woozi and Bumzu play it safe this time. Some parts sound repetitive though, but Left & Right never feel outdated because of its sleek production.
The song might be a safe choice, however Left & Right music video is more than that. It takes on a quirky storyline which shows the Seventeen boys do various experiment in different settings. We see them fail to do a marathon, throw Hoshi up in the sky, and watch S.Coups flies his car. It’s quite bizarre yet fun to watch, thanks to the members’ deadpan acting :D.
The camerawork and choice of setting also emphasizes on Left & Right quirky aspect. It’s amusing to see how they play with wide and landscape shot; giving more comic relief to each scene. While the setting really embodies the song title itself, traffic lights and signs. Both are quite unique for K-Pop music video and yes, it truly elevates the song.
Seventeen is back to their comfort zone through Left & Right. It’s a bright tune with memorable hook and sleek production despite not offering something new. The music video is a hidden gem because the unique camerawork manages to grasp the quirkiness of Seventeen situation. They do random things that will make you laugh.
Left & Right might not have the same magic like their previous hits because at some point, you get too familiar with this. However, they continue to nail their bright style that you can’t help to welcome them. So yeah, I guess they win ;)
Rating: 3.5/5
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