Song Review: ISTJ by NCT DREAM

It is quite unfortunate that their pre-release ‘Broken Melodies’, at least for me, grew slightly weaker in time as I found an issue with the plodding percussion used in the beginning of the chorus that became grating to my ears. Nevertheless, it is still a strong release. This development made me look forward to seeing if ‘ISTJ’ could surpass it, especially because it is easier now that the former’s score was bumped down. Thankfully, it might just do it.

The main problem with ISTJ is that it spend too much time cultivating ideas that did not build towards the song’s main hook, lacking focus and clarity. I highlight this as ‘ISTJ’ might contain a chorus that is among the best within their entire discography, which is quite a feat given that they have behemoths such as ‘My First and Last’ and ‘Hello Future’ under their belt. I do like the individual segments individually, but not all of it felt like it supported the chorus. When the chorus is this strong, it is usually of best interest to make the other sections focused on building and supporting that peak of ecstasy to maximise its impact on the listener, and I don’t think the admittedly interesting production particularly helped in doing so.

In spite of this, the melodies ring true. The boys deliver some of the most charismatic executions of their lines they have ever done, particular the rappers Jasmin and Jeno who often don’t take the spotlight in favour of ‘core’ members Haechan and Mark. They owned every moment, it carries the song into strength by strength, even with the diversions that come their way.

Funnily enough, I don’t think the change-up in the bridge felt out of place within the song. Sure, the genre was totally different, and so was the rhythm, but somehow, the transition is among the smoothest I’ve ever seen within any song that attempted something similar (see aespa’s ‘Next Level’ or NMIXX’s ‘DICE’ and ‘O.O’) to the point that I barely blinked- even enjoying that section thoroughly as it was very well executed and produced. Perhaps, the previous exposure really helped me appreciate it a lot more.

Overall, I think that the strengths of ‘ISTJ’ noticeably surpass their weaknesses. Perhaps with more focus, ‘ISTJ’ could have been truly been 2023 K-pop highlight- or perhaps it needs more time to marinate. Either way, this is another win for Dream.

Hooks – 9
Production – 8
Vocal Delivery – 10
Rap/Chant Delivery – 10
Overall – 9.25