BABYMONSTER officially joins the scorching summer comeback lineup, blessing fans with a vibrant music video and active promotions for their side track, “I LIKE IT.” This fresh release is a highlight from their 3rd mini-album, CHOOM, following the mini-album’s initial release and its title track in May. It also comes hot on the heels of their June digital single, “Sugar Honey Ice Tea,” which we’ll be diving into with a review very soon!
“I LIKE IT”: A Pop-Leaning Summer Anthem
As a dedicated K-Pop enthusiast, I’ve often found that YG Entertainment artists truly shine when they embrace a more pop-leaning sound, distinct from their signature hip-hop roots. “I LIKE IT” delivers exactly this, captivating listeners with its bright, vibrant synths and undeniably upbeat energy. The track instantly makes you want to get up, dance, and sing along to its infectious parts. The subtle “twang” woven into the first verse adds a charming, playful element that really stands out.
What truly elevates “I LIKE IT” is its refreshing and clear focus on vocals. AHYEON, in particular, delivers a show-stopping performance, with her impressive high note leaving a lasting impression. Yet, the entire BABYMONSTER lineup holds their ground, showcasing their vocal prowess beautifully. The chorus radiates a brilliant brightness, while the post-chorus hooks are the true earworms – those catchy bits that will replay in your mind long after the song ends. The repetition in the song’s outro also proves incredibly sticky. My only minor quibble lies with the reggae-inspired background during the second verse’s rap section. While suitable for summer, it momentarily disrupts the otherwise unstoppable upbeat flow and energy of the track.
Vibrant Visuals: A Summer Dream Music Video
True to its designation as a “summer comeback,” the “I LIKE IT” music video is a feast for the eyes. We see the BABYMONSTER members enjoying themselves outdoors, exuding youthful fun. The visuals are consistently vibrant and colorful during the daytime scenes, transitioning to cool and breezy aesthetics as night falls – precisely what you’d expect to complement such an upbeat summer track. The members look absolutely stunning throughout, each showcasing their unique charms. There’s also a hint of their characteristic “badass” vibe (hello, ice cream on fire!) subtly integrated, ensuring they stay true to their established image.
The most unexpected moment in the entire video, however, comes at the very end: a rather plain, tacked-on announcement for the final music video for “MOON” (another side track from CHOOM) slated for an early August release. While exciting news, its sudden placement felt a little out of sync with the overall flow and could perhaps have been delivered through other media channels.
Choreography & Stage Presence: Pure Enjoyment
The choreography for this comeback perfectly captures the song’s spirit: it’s fun, bubbly, and incredibly refreshing. While no single move stands out as groundbreaking, the sheer joy and enthusiasm with which the members perform “I LIKE IT” on stage is infectious. Seeing this lighter, more playful side of BABYMONSTER is a genuine delight and is precisely what draws me back to their stage performances again and again.
Final Verdict
Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8/10
Performance – 8.5/10
Overall Rating – 8.6/10
