[Review] IU delivers an expansive, magical encouragement to be metaphorically grasping on “Shopper” – Asian Junkie

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IU‘s first two singles for her The Successful return had been a success and then a miss, although neither music had been in genres that resided in my private wheelhouse. “Shopper” adjustments that, bringing forth a playful but expansive throwback electro-pop sound.

Powered primarily by a easy beat, an brisk synth loop, and IU’s shiny but expressive vocals, the comp right here could be one thing like Carly Rae Jepsen‘s EMOTION album, or perhaps a little bit of a throwback to IU’s personal earlier eras. The verses drive the music ahead at a brisk sufficient tempo, culminating with a belting refrain that carries an uplifting spirit with a tinge of magic to it. “Shopper” does lack an instantly memorable chorus — which may turn out to be a problem over time and limits its final upside — however the explosion of vitality as an alternative of a downturn and the addition of the electrical guitar helped add to expansive really feel of issues, and each kicked in even more durable to shut the music out.

Thematically, that is clearly not some sort of ode to capitalism or one thing, as “Shopper” is mainly IU’s encouragement for the listener. It encapsulates the second of self-realization from an individual who’s on the level in life the place they know what they need and now need as a lot of it as potential, conveying encouragement to these at an identical level to be grasping with out being ashamed or afraid of judgment. I’m unsure many Ok-pop followers are at that stage but, however for us hags who’ve discovered a course, it provides a relatable sentiment.

In the meantime, the music video stars and is directed by DPR Ian, and he offers a whimsical canvas that matches the tone of the music completely. Whereas I’m not a lore hater or something, it’s nearly refreshing in that it tells a narrative that’s simply largely because it appears (plus some Easter Eggs), presenting matching magical vitality for the uplifting soundscape. The ensuing total package deal is one thing that’s a minimum of excellent for sure moods that match this tone. Whereas nonetheless largely in need of IU’s greatest, “Shopper” has to date confirmed to be an efficient 80s-tinged pop observe that bucks Ok-pop developments a bit by offering one thing to stay up for at its conclusion.

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