Doh Kyung Soo Welcomes Spring With 3rd EP 'Blossom' • POP TOKKI

On May 7th, solo artist Doh Kyung Soo, also known as EXO’s D.O., released his mini album ‘Blossom’. ‘Blossom’ is Doh Kyung Soo’s third EP and his first release under his new agency Company SooSoo, as well as under his given name Doh Kyung Soo. Similar to his previous releases, ‘Blossom’ features an acoustic pop sound mostly of ballads.

A Poppin’ Pre-Release

The promotions for the mini album began on April 30th with a pre-released music video for the track “Popcorn”. The lyrics for “Popcorn” describe the happiness of being in love being explosive like popcorn. The song itself is a ballad that highlights the strong and smooth vocals that Doh Kyung Soo is known for.

The Flowering Title Track

The pre-release was of course followed by the EP’s official release on May 7th. The EP’s lead single “Mars” also received a music video with the mini album’s release. True to its name, the message of “Mars” expresses uncertainty over being able to love somebody even though they’re such different people, it’s almost as if they’re from another planet (Mars vs. Venus). “Mars” is a bright song with minimalist mid-tempo instrumentals fit for the coming of spring.

The Other B-Sides

The other four tracks of ‘Blossom’ – “Simple Joys”, “Good Night”, “My Dear”, and “About Time” – similarly feature minimalist instrumentals that allow the artist’s vocal abilities to shine. Like “Popcorn” and “Mars”, they are also acoustic ballads. “Simple Joys”, as the title says, is about deriving happiness from the small things in life. This track features the mellow sounds of an acoustic guitar. “Good Night” is, on the other hand, a comforting lullaby. The lyrics urge the listener to let go of their worries and allow themselves to rest. Doh Kyung Soo assures listeners that they already endured the hardships of “today” and can leave their future anxieties for their “tomorrow”.

Meanwhile, “My Dear” is a promise of lifelong commitment. The track is a romantic ballad that, like “Simple Joys”, features a sweet and mellow acoustic guitar instrumental. On the flip side, the final track “About Time”, is a sorrowful song featuring piano. “About Time” is literally about time – specifically, turning back time to regain a relationship previously taken for granted. In this heartbreaking song, the lyrics grieve unconditional affection and love that the narrator was unable to reciprocate. Now that that affection is gone, the narrator pines for their lover back and promises to be better for them. All in all, each of these tracks expresses quite comforting messaging, whether they are joyful or melancholy songs listeners can sympathize with.

What was your favorite song on ‘Blossom’? Let us know on our Instagram and Twitter!