iKON continues their musical growth amidst military enlistment through solo debuts, and DK is the next member to take on the center stage. Born Kim Dong-Hyuk, iKON’s main dancer and producer, DK made his solo debut with a self-produced full album ‘NAKSEO[戀]’, entering his grooviest and most charismatic era yet. We first heard his solo material with the b-side solo track “KISS ME” from iKON’s 3rd full album ‘TAKE OFF’, and fans have been excited to see his full potential in the RnB genre. He surely owned the genre with his flavorful take on ‘NAKSEO[戀]’.
LTNS (Long Time No See)
DK first gave a glimpse of his solo debut album with “LTNS”, showcasing the vulnerable and emotional side of his music. This angsty track bleeds in rock influences in perfect fusion of strings and percussion, yielding a sentimental and sophisticated listen. The music video is full of symbolism in blue hues, and DK’s filtered vocals add a dreamy layer to the overall experience with the track.
GROOVIN‘
A groove shift from “LTNS”’s sentimental atmosphere is the vibey title track “GROOVIN’”, transporting DK from the memory-flushed 4 corners of his room to the highs of a club. “GROOVIN'” resembles that classic groovy and danceable R&B anthem, which is perfect to vibe your slow yet fun night with DK’s smooth vocals.
With DK as the main producer, ‘NAKSEO[戀]’ knows how to show off his musical range and strength as an artist from all the right angles, even in its choice of collaboration. B-side “Still in my” once again showcases DK’s chemistry with member Bobby, a musical duo known by fans as BobDong. “Little Bird,” a duet with K-R&B singer Punch, offers a calm listen in its stripped instrumental yet poetic and symbolic in its lyrics. Another stand out in the album is “??”, an EDM-heavy track offering a message of modern loneliness and nostalgia—the song is both vibey and relatable.
With ‘NAKSEO[戀]’, DK surely set his footing right in this solo endeavor. We can’t wait to hear more of DK’s solo works in the future!
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Featured image courtesy of 143 Entertainment.
