“Neverland” is the 9th mini album from Starship Entertainment girl group, WJSN. It is their first release in the 2020 year. The mini has a total of 6 tracks, including the title, “Butterfly.”
1. Butterfly (Title)
This is the title track of the mini. It is an up-beat synth pop track. One of the instruments that immediately sticks out is a rhythmic guitar. This reminds me of their popular track, “Secret.” Another prevalent instrumental is the synth run that caps off lines in the chorus’. Although a little obscure, this reminded me of the song of the same title in the Dance Dance Revolution series. I was really surprised at the line assignments, like having Yeoreum sing the first chorus, and Soobin doing the high note. It was surprising, but a very refreshing sound. Exy also had a different approach to her rap parts. If you also have a look at the translated lyrics, this is a song of empowerment with the message to be yourself, no matter what others think of you. This is one of my favorite tracks on the album and amongst recent title tracks.
2. Hola
This song is more of an EDM genre. It’s the kind of track that you would hear if you see characters in a movie going into a nightclub. I’m not the biggest fan of the specific atmosphere of this kind of song. One thing that I’m usually never a fan of in Kpop is when there’s an english word that’s repeated quickly, almost as if it was an instrument. It also doesn’t feel like a song that WJSN usually puts out.
3. Pantomime
Although this is another EDM track, I like the overall composition of it compared to Hola. The verses are definitely my favorite part of the song. It has the chill vibe that I like. The vocals drive us forward through the more ethereal section, and then is accompanied by a more active drum section. When it hits the chorus, that’s where it loses me a little, especially when they repeat Like a Pantomime part. It’s almost my same issue with Hola. The chorus feels like a big change from the verses.
4. Where You Are
This is a pop song that you don't hear much nowadays. I’m getting some vibes that I got from a previous b-side, “Miracle.” Instead of the more funky rhythm of “Butterly” and “Secret”, we get more of an inspirational vibe with the strings and piano. WJSN was able to put their spin on this sort of lost genre in today’s kpop market.
5. Tra-La
“Tra-La” is a tropical house track. This is a refreshing sound for the group, because they’re usually known for their space themed songs, which usually are of the synthpop and electric genres. It’s tropical but it's a little bit more relaxed than most songs in the genre. It also leans more into the house part, making it a bit more WJSN.
6. Our Garden
“Our Garden” has more of a groovy swing feel. This is another one that we don’t usually see on the market. This hits some big bases that I like: relaxed and jazzy. The very beginning sets the chill mood for the rest of the song. The members are able to show off their vocals a bit more here. The transitions aren’t as smooth between sections, but that’s only a minor setback for me, personally. This is one of my favorites on the mini.
Summary
“Neverland” is a good mix of songs for most tastes. The mix may be a double edged sword, because as a whole, there may be some songs that someone might not favor compared to others. But WJSN is still able to put their style throughout the mini. If you’re a longtime fan, or just finding them now, there should be something in there for you.