SHINee HARD: In-Depth Album Review – Sweet Misery | The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion

1. Hard // 2. Juice // 3. 10X // 4. Satellite // 5. Identity // 6. The Feeling // 7. Like It // 8. Sweet Misery // 9. Insomnia // 10. Gravity

SWEET MISERY

I’ve seen Sweet Misery mentioned as many listeners’ favorite track on the album, and I understand where they’re coming from. It’s definitely one of the most distinct moments on Hard, fully luxuriating in its blend of lush synths. Unlike some surrounding tracks, the song takes its time to develop. While its various elements might not quite forge the knockout I was hoping for, they’re each gorgeous on their own.

Sweet Misery is the track I can see growing on me most as the weeks go on. Right now, it’s lacking the melodic sucker punch I crave, but its stately sound and flawless delivery make it a standout. Maybe as part of a stronger — more sonically cohesive — album, the track would play a vital role. It comes across as a sultrier, less showy cousin to 2021’s CØDE. I’m an absolute sucker for the backing vocals that buttress its centerpiece. They sound like heaven.

Hooks	8
Production	9
Longevity	9
Bias	8
RATING	8.5

Grade: B

9 thoughts on “SHINee HARD: In-Depth Album Review – Sweet Misery”

This song has me on my knees. I love it so much.

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During the Beyond Live, they said it was Taemin’s favorite song. I really like it, too.

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Their harmonies are the greatest thing ever. I love this song so much. I’m gonna listen to it a billion times. Its so good. It a little calmer of a song and I love its spot in the track list. Even being calmer it barrels its way into my brain. Also its a song that sounds like a song Jonghyun would be great on and it makes me both happy and sad. He would be amazing on this album.

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Yeah, this is definitely one of my favorites from the album. It may not be too high intensity, but it does what it does good pretty good. Hope it grows on you too!

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You’re right about it giving stronge CODE vibes!

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This one knows the mood it wants to achieve and I think it succeeds. Putting my headphones on definitely enhances the experience. Gorgeous.

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And we’ve finally reached my favorite off the album. I’m not even sure why but I knew this was my favorite before I even finished listening to it the first time through. Its only been a few days but I think I’ve already replayed this more than anything else released in 2023. I find it utterly hypnotic and by the time its over, I already want to hit the replay button again.

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I can see this knocking Identity out of my number two spot eventually, because it’s stunning. I’m a sucker for atmospheric, ethereal-sounding songs, and I just want to put my headphones on and drown in this one. Gorgeous blend of instrumental and vocals to get lost in.

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