Aespa has finally made their official comeback with their title track “Spicy”, accompanied by their mini album, “MY WORLD”. This has been a very highly anticipated project for me personally, as I have been a big fan of their previous discography. Like I do with all reviews, I do my best to put aside personal feeling/bias towards a group and look at the music objectively. With that said, Lets see if this new project really is spicy! Lets dig in 🙂

“Welcome to MY World”

I have already reviewed this song, as it was a pre-release single from the album. If you would like to check out the full review I will link it here. If you dont care to read it, my rating will follow below 🙂

Full review: https://kpopcritique.com/2023/05/02/aespa-welcome-to-my-world-pre-release-track-review/

Rating: 8.5/10

“Spicy”

Just right off the bat, this track is not asking you for its attention, it is straight up demanding it. The song goes from 0 to 100 right away and does not let up until it ends. The super crunchy and gritty synth that drives the track is nothing short of nasty (in a good way lol). I am pretty impressed how they were able to effectively top line this track, as it can be difficult with such a bombastic instrumentation. I also have to applaud the mixing on this track, as it could have been very easy for the instrumental to drown out the girls vocals. It feels very balanced. The only issues I have with this song, are in the verses; as I feel they could use a little more development or creativity in the instrumentation. With how strong and present the main synth is in the track, it does come off a little one dimensional. Overall though, I think this is a super fun track that lives up to the title of “Spicy”! Nothing mild going on here!

8/10

“Salty and Sweet”

Moving on to a different flavor profile (lol), we have the next track, “Salty and Sweet”. Already this song is very reminiscent of their debut album, with its strong hyper/PC pop elements. I especially love how eery and dark the intro is on this track. This song has sort of a raw feeling to it, but also feels very polished at the same time. I believe the “rawness” comes from how the chanting sections feel very unedited. I could see how this could be off putting to some, but for me it gives the track even more texture and sass. The bridge is very melodic and pretty, which is expected out of an SM track. I think this song is a very strong, and is perfectly suited for Aespa. I have really nothing bad to say here!

8.5/10

“Thirsty”

After all those intense flavors in the previous track, I would say i’m pretty Thirsty…. in which the Aespa girls give us just what we need, with a more light and refreshing sound with their next track, “Thirsty”! By the way, I apologize for the bad jokes, I just cant resist sometimes 🙂 Jokes aside, this song is actually very perfectly placed on this album. I love the dreamy atmosphere of this song, and how warm the melodies are. It shouldn’t be a surprise to say that this song isn’t necessarily doing anything revolutionary or special in terms of instrumentation or composition. But it’s a sweet little track that really highlights the girls vocals well. My only critique here is that in the final chorus, the “woah” part could use more vocal layering, as it sounds a bit dry/flat.

8/10

“Unhappy”

I am choosing not to make a joke here, but lets just say i’m unhappy about it… ok, ok, im sorry lol. Next up we have the moody alt pop track, “Unhappy”. First thing i’m digging on this track, is the sort of distorted keyboard riff that drives through most of the song. The progression is also nice here, but maybe a bit predictable (not always a bad thing). I really love the power of the vocals in the chorus. It gives what they are saying and the track even more impact. I really enjoy the bridge on this, and the gritty instrumental break. Overall, another solid track on this project. No complaints!

8.5/10

“‘Til We Meet Again”

I have said it before and I will say it again, but it wouldn’t be a k-pop album unless there is a ballad to close it off! And i’m afraid to say even Aespa is not immune from a lackluster ballad… However, compared to others I have reviewed recently, this one is a little stronger. My biggest issue with this one and previous ballads, is the sort of cheesy, commercial sounding acoustic guitar. If this song didn’t have that it could have more potential to be better. The chorus is very reminiscent of a K-drama soundtrack. The melodies are nice, but nothing super special or impactful.

Rating: 6/10

Final Thoughts and Rating

Overall, I feel like this is a really well rounded and quality project from the Aespa Girls. Looking at the album as a whole it feels very cohesive and well paced. I enjoy they are trying some different things with their sound but also still staying true to their original concept. Not a perfect mini album by any means, but is very enjoyable and has a little something for everyone.

Rating: 8/10

Favorite song(s): “Welcome to MY World” & “Salty & Sweet” (couldn’t pick just one)

Least Favorite: “‘Til We Meet Again”

What were your thoughts on “Spicy” and the new mini album?! Do you think it was worth the wait? I would love to hear your opinions 🙂