KATSEYE Delivers a Collection of 'BEAUTIFUL CHAOS'
Photo: Julian Song
KATSEYE, the global pop girl group, has unveiled their second EP, BEAUTIFUL CHAOS, a daring leap forward just a year after their debut. The EP, centered around the theme of 'celebrating confusion,' is a fusion of genres that mirrors the group's creative upheaval and growth. The title BEAUTIFUL CHAOS encapsulates the essence of the EP, suggesting that amidst the chaos, there is beauty and artistry to be found.
The EP kicks off with the powerhouse track "Gnarly." It's a perfect blend of confident, sarcastic, and hilarious lyrics set against a backdrop of fantastic, hyper-pop instrumentals. It's infectiously abrasive, oozing with personality, and offers a unique connection to KATSEYE's promise as a global girl group, inviting you to join them on their journey. The mood shifts on the next track, "Gabriela." It's a Latin-tinged R&B pop effort that weaves a story about a woman pleading with another not to steal her man. With its reggae basslines and bilingual lyrics, it's a mid-tempo groove that sails listeners into the rest of the record.
Transitioning from the soft, video game-inspired "Gameboy," listeners are immersed in the dreamy realm of "Mean Girls." This track, which serves as the heart of the record, according to the band, serves as commentary on the backlash they faced after the release of the Dream Academy documentary. They extend grace to their critics and decide to kill them with kindness, finding peace and symbolically closing a turbulent chapter of their career. The song, with its reflective yet bass-heavy approach, offers a powerful message of empowerment and forgiveness for mean girls, while also addressing the online scrutiny that artists often endure. The strings and beat blend beautifully with the vulnerable lyrics and illustrious harmonies, with Lara's pre-chorus vocals serving as the standout moment of the track.
Closing out the project is the fiery and upbeat "M.I.A." The track sounds like a cross between BLACKPINK and Charli xcx, with the girls asserting their confidence with the boisterous electronic pop track. Using punchy lyrics and playful autotune, the group declares their right to peace and fun, making it clear that drama won't get in the way of their good time.
With BEAUTIFUL CHAOS, KATSEYE redefines itself as a fearless, boundary-pushing group. Their determination to carve a niche for representation, individuality, and fun in the upcoming era of pop music makes it nigh impossible not to root for their inevitable superstardom.
Listen to BEAUTIFUL CHAOS below: