A K-pop act’s title track isn’t always the best song on their album, even if it’s the one most people will hear. Sometimes, b-sides deserve recognition too. In the singles-oriented world of K-pop, I want to spotlight some of these buried treasures and give them the props they deserve.
As I mentioned when writing about title track Groovy, CRAVITY have somehow become one of this era’s most consistent purveyors of bright, upbeat K-pop. This stretches across their newest album as well. The tracklist isn’t quite as bulletproof as last year’s New Wave, but it’s nearly there. Just remove the chanted chorus from Get Lifted (what were you thinking, boys??) and we’re good.
For my buried treasure, I could have written about the rock-tinged Baddie or the cool hyperpop of A To Z. But after a few listens, Fly is the album track that stands out most to me. It’s as bright and ebullient as Groovy, yet adds a crunchy power pop edge that helps it develop a personality of its own. This is evident right from the start, as the track opens with a striking talkbox intro. From here, we launch into one of the track’s many hooks. The rollicking energy of the verses has an old-school sound – almost like the Monkees in places.
Fly’s chorus is simple but addictive. It perfectly matches the light, airy style of the members’ vocals, gently pushing the melody forward in a volley of ascending notes. The percussion never once lets up, and this makes for a jolt of sustained energy that’s guaranteed to raise your spirits. If I’m concerned about anything, it’s how Fly might age. Its hooks are so catchy and singsong that they may threaten to wear thin over time. We’ll see!
| Hooks | 9 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 8 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.75 |
The Bias List // K-Pop Reviews & Discussion 
Cool to see our tastes align! This song was the instant album stand-out for me. It’ s immensely catchy but it’ s also got a varied sound.
Fly is a real mood-booster!
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I was wondering which song you would choose for the Buried Treasure. ‘Fly’ was definitely one of the contenders for me. It’s such a great song. It’s addictive and fun.
On my first initial listen to each song, ‘A to Z’ was the song that stood out to me the most. It’s got this refreshing feeling to it.
After a few listens to the album, ‘Baddie’ is the one that currently has me in a chokehold. This song is just TOO GOOD.
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Just as I thought! Really enjoyed this one. Reminded me a lot of TO1’s “Drummin'”.
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I knew this was a winner; it could’ve easily been the title track. The talkbox bridge is the cherry on top!
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Chorus could stand out a bit more. Otherwise legit title material.
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One of the top B sides of the year thus far!
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One of the top B-sides released this year thus far!
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They’re always been a decent b-sides band to me. I’m glad they are making the titles match what I already knew was great. I’m enjoying their growth a whole lot.
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Their B-sides have been consistantly great. I’m still not over ‘Believer’ and ‘Call my name’. These 2 songs are TOO good
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My mind immediately went to One Direction, particularly Kiss You era stuff. Light, reliable fun!
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tbh i wouldnt rlly call a to z “hyperpop” but. imo its the closest kpops ever gotten to the drain gang sound (but more specifically ecco2ks stuff)
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