RIIZE's 'Ember to Solar': A Bold Musical Experiment in K-Pop

RIIZE's latest track 'Ember to Solar' from their album 'ODYSSEY' is making waves in the K-Pop scene with its innovative approach, reminiscent of their SM Entertainment predecessors yet distinct in its execution.

Released on October 6, the track video for 'Ember to Solar' quickly garnered attention, amassing over 3.2 million views and 5,400 comments within a day. It even ranked third on YouTube's 'Trending Music' chart, highlighting its impact.

While the vocals of 'Ember to Solar' echo the style of earlier SM Entertainment groups like SHINee, with layered and powerful choruses, the song distinguishes itself through its instrumental arrangement. The track features grand brass sounds that maintain the intense image typical of SM-produced songs, yet simplifies the chorus with bass and drums, setting it apart from the high-pitched harmonies of second-generation idol dance tracks. This simplicity aligns it more closely with recent releases like aespa's 'Armageddon.'

A standout feature of 'Ember to Solar' is its rhythmic experimentation. The song primarily follows an 8/8 time signature, common in K-Pop, but introduces a 7/8 time signature in the bridge, creating a unique rhythmic tension. This shift is resolved in the following measure with a 9/8 time signature, balancing the vocal and instrumental lines.

Such rhythmic complexity is rare in K-Pop, where 4/4 and 3/4 time signatures dominate. The use of 7/8 time, often found in experimental pop music, adds an intriguing layer to the track. This bold arrangement challenges listeners but quickly resolves any discomfort, leaving a subtle yet memorable impression.

By introducing these nuanced rhythmic changes, 'Ember to Solar' invites listeners to explore its depths, encouraging repeated listens. This innovative approach not only sets RIIZE apart but also enriches the K-Pop genre with its daring musical exploration.

Reported by Min-Kyung Lee, TenAsia 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr