ATEEZ return with new mini album Golden Hour Part 2 and the title song Ice On My Teeth.
ATEEZ comeback is a holiday in my household and I am so (not) prepared for this new era to begin. I have enjoyed their previous album so much – from the title track to the b-sides (Blind is seriously one of the best boy group songs of 2024), and I feel like ATEEZ are really growing not only as artists but also as individuals. Every comeback you can see how much more confidence they have and it makes their performances stand out even more. I was lucky enough to see them live last year and I can only imagine just how much more energy they will have for this next Europe tour – they really are in their own lane and doing their own thing regardless of any trends. Let’s dive into Ice On My Teeth and review the new album.
Ice On My Teeth definitely continues the attitude and sound Work has set for ATEEZ and I feel like it works because it’s them who are doing it. The song is catchy, bad-ass, and definitely has some moments that I can only call sexy because wow, I did not expect to hear some of these lines so directly. Props to ATEEZ for doing their own thing because I think it works well and wraps up this year for them in the same style they started it with. Of course, my favourite sections are always the vocal ones but Ice On My Teeth definitely puts more focus on the hook and the ice-cold attitude itself. The rap sections are, as always, a stand-out point and both Hongjoong and Mingi always make sure to bring the best of energy to the table. Another thing I always enjoy are their music videos and this one is definitely a treat for the eyes. I love the darker mood it brings but still keeps the actual fire visuals – the whole contrast of ice and fire is an interesting concept for me and I like how the creative directors played with it. However, on the first few listens Ice on My Teeth isn’t exactly my favourite ATEEZ song – I’ll be completely honest there – as I’m always rooting more for their melodic, dramatic, and vocal-heavy tracks (Inception still remains my all-time favourite), but similar to some of their previous attitude-heavy tracks, Ice on My Teeth will grow on me quickly. It has a catchy hook, some great elements that will make sure I go back to it and, of course, the irresistible ATEEZ charm which I’m sure will be even better during the live performances.
Now, if there’s something you can say about ATEEZ, it’s that they know how to deliver a good b-side. They have featured in every single one of my top b-sides lists at the end of the year, and I’m sure you’ll see them again there. One of the reasons I often gravitate towards their b-sides is because they have so much melody in them, as well as the dramatic vocal moments I’m a sucker for. This time around I’m really loving Man on Fire and Selfish Waltz. ATEEZ’s Cyberpunk is still one of the best k-pop b-sides for me and Selfish Waltz really brings back that energy and melody, making it an instant stand-out on the album. On the other hand, Man on Fire brings back that Blind melody I am still absolutely obsessed with. Both of these songs showcase their vocals and their sensual charm so well – I can even see Man on Fire being another promotional track for this era because it suits them so well. It’s darker and moodier, but still maintains a catchy, melodic chorus. Definitely a hidden gem that shouldn’t be hidden.
This might not be one of my favourite ATEEZ titles but it’s a solid and fun one. However, the album is definitely a great one and it’s good to know ATEEZ continue their tradition of giving us amazing b-sides to be obsessed with.
Header Image Source: KQ Entertainment