I’ve never written about tripleS, but I do like/love a fair share of their songs. ‘Girl’s Capitalism’ and ‘Generation’ are my clear standouts, and their discography so far has been quite solid and consistent. ‘Girls Never Die’ marks the debut of all 24 members together (which even surpasses the total of NCT if I am not mistaken).
Honestly, I would have absolutely loved this song if their are a few changes.
Firstly, the second half of the bridge is just so noticeably weaker and rather ‘meh’ compared to the first half. Perhaps it reverts expectations in a way, but it doesn’t enhance and rather detracts the overall effect, simply coming off as blunt and uninspiring.
Speaking of uninspiring, despite the song’s message and lyrics being empowering and inspiring, the production is anything but. It plays too safe and refuses to take risks or do things to make the song interesting. It is undoubtedly solid and moderately effective. It takes things that feel ‘textbook’ and are known to work, but fails to go beyond that. Lacking sections can be clearly seen in the verses and the bridge, and perhaps the final chorus also lacks a little bit of ‘oomph’ which I expected. There is some standout moments, like the transition from the second verse to the second chorus, which is really interesting and fresh, but is otherwise relatively flat and monotone.
Otherwise, the song contains a beast of a chorus. It is so emotive, somewhat melancholic yet quietly self-assured. Its melody is well-constructed that unfolds its charms as it runs, and has become one of my favorite choruses of K-pop this year. It has never failed to impress me time and time again. Yet, because of this clear disparity of quality between the chorus and the verses, my frustrations with the songs also become stronger with time. I’m frustrated, knowing how much better the song could have been.
Most of the girls’ voices sound good but are faceless. The main vocalist stands out both in her technique and her vocal tone, but most of the others don’t. The vocal direction and production, however, was quite good. Still, as many have said, it doesn’t take 24 people to achieve the same effect as was done in this song.
Overall, ‘Girls Never Die’ shall be remembered as a song that could have been so much more.
Hooks – 9
Production – 8
Vocal Delivery – 8
Overall – 8.5

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