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.

Nothing on Ren’s debut mini album knocks it out of the park, but it’s one of the more consistent K-pop comebacks of the year. The musical ambition is lower than I’d like, especially from someone as fashionable as Ren. However, the songs have strong bones and the energy is upbeat and fun.

My favorite track on the album is the punchy, rock-influenced Autofill. This isn’t a musical direction I considered Ren going, but the song has the catchiest hook and most ebullient production of the new material. Its chorus will lodge itself in memory immediately, egged on my insistent guitar. And, Autofill does a nice job expanding through its second verse rather than sacrifice momentum via needless shifts or detours. Ren’s voice sounds fantastic and powerful, with a richness that gives the melodies plenty of character. Though the song isn’t any more groundbreaking than title track Ready To Move, I think it would have made a more exciting choice for promotions.

Grade: B