Since their debut in 2024, Big Ocean has been breaking barriers for artists with disabilities as the first hard-of-hearing K-pop group. Signed under Parastar Entertainment, the group consists of 3 members (PJ, Chanyeon, and Jiseok) and serves as an example of the company’s efforts to uplift and nurture talented individuals with disabilities. In the group’s latest release on March 3, they presented fans with their third mini album, ‘The Greatest Battle,’ exploring the tumultuous themes of fighting until the end and never giving up on oneself.
“Alive”
The album begins with the energetic opening of “Alive” which creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a battle cry, and signals the start of ‘The Greatest Battle.’ The blend of catchy vocalizations and rap provides an engaging experience as the members sing about overcoming the odds and being persistent in their goals, while also being careful not to lose sight of themselves.
“One Man Army”
Continuing the theme of going to battle, the title track, “One Man Army” talks about fighting until the end and giving it everything you’ve got. “If this is the last stand, I’ll be / Here waiting like a one man army / ‘Cause I’ve always been beaten but never defeated / I’ll rise back up again.” These lyrics within the chorus provide a motivating and empowering message for listeners that is further emphasized by the distinct drum beats calling them to action.
The music video for “One Man Army” features a black-and-white gradient that adds to the drama of the many fight scenes within the video. The aspect ratio of the screen, reminiscent of a cinematic view, also adds to this drama, especially as the editing makes objects seem to burst through the screen at various points. The black-and-white gradient theme is disrupted towards the end of the music video with the inclusion of the color blue as wave imagery appears and the members start their successful comeback against their enemies, literally and figuratively symbolizing the turning of the tide. In the video, viewers can also see how the members work to include sign language within their choreographies in their continued efforts to make their performances more accessible and representative.
“Back”
With jazzy guitar riffs and a house vibe, the third track on the album signals a shift towards a lighter, more uplifting sound that’s perfect for the summer. However, despite this auditory change, “Back” still carries on the theme of making a comeback and finding yourself as the members sing about rising up even after being knocked down.
“Cold Moon”
Continuing the refreshing summer sound, the last track on the album, “Cold Moon,” features all-English lyrics interspersed with saxophone tunes and impressive high notes. As the members display their vocal range, they sing about labeling a relationship as impossible and thus committing to never pursuing their feelings for their love interest. On the surface, this messaging appears to be a contradictory end to an album about never giving up and always fighting for what you believe in; however, the song can also be seen as doing yourself a service by not entertaining a relationship that would only result in harm — in other words, picking your battles.
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