The Boyz’ December debut didn’t quite hit with me, and I’m still not sure why. The song catered to so many of my k-pop preferences, yet never went beyond a pleasant pop diversion. Luckily, that won’t be the case with new single Giddy Up. It’s easily one of the most instant releases we’ve heard all year, and an ideal sound for such a large-numbered group.

While listening to Giddy Up for the first time, I kept expecting the beat to drop out and transform into one of those irritating trap breakdowns that have sabotaged so many recent boy group comebacks. But even when the track switches gear for its standout, rap-driven bridge, its core elements are built upon rather than tossed away. Each moment works in tandem to create a blast of retro pop exuberance from start to finish, and that’s an incredibly refreshing approach. The tempo is high from the beginning, galloping out of the gate with a funky blend of guitar and electronics as the verse pin balls between members.

After an extended pre-chorus (maybe a bit too extended), Giddy Up launches into its killer chorus. It’s a euphoric melody, fusing two distinct segments into one layered rush of sing-along dance pop. It feels like a lighter version of the style SHINee tackled in 2013, with a focus on bright instrumentals and soaring arrangements. The Boyz don’t yet have the uniqueness of tone to elevate this material into something truly transformative, but this is definitely a step in the right direction. I’m on board.

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