The title track 'Buffering' is regarded as a clear representation of their musical evolution.
This album, with its exploration of various genres and distinct member identities, has garnered much anticipation.
On March 28, 2022, NCT DREAM made a comeback with their second regular album, 'Glitch Mode'. This album features a total of 11 tracks, including the title song 'Buffering', showcasing a variety of genres. Their sales have been noteworthy, surpassing 2.07 million pre-orders and achieving daily number one on domestic charts immediately after release. 'Buffering' has captured public interest with its unique sounds and dynamic performances.
Last year, NCT DREAM earned recognition with their first full album, 'Hot Sauce', selling 3.42 million copies. The new album demonstrates their continued growth in the music industry, also signifying positive changes in their musical direction. Particularly, 'Buffering' stands out as an embodiment of their growth in vocals, rap, and performance.
Initially debuting with a youthful concept, NCT DREAM is now transitioning towards adulthood and exploring new themes. This shift has allowed them to define their unique colors, embodying a new concept of 'Kitch' that represents a uplevel in their music. The album serves as clear evidence of their growth without obstacles, instilling anticipation for their future advancements.
The album 'Glitch Mode' plays a crucial role in reaffirming NCT DREAM's musical capabilities. The title track 'Buffering' stands out with its distinct elements, effectively representing their growth. The diverse components displayed—hip-hop beats, innovative choruses, and dance breaks—sensitively reveal that they are evolving beyond mere idols into real artists.
From the perspective of musical direction and growth, 'Glitch Mode' warrants attention. As the team transitions from a 'youthful' concept to a more mature theme, their musical spectrum has broadened substantially. By exploring a variety of genres and incorporating each member's identity, the album aids listeners in experiencing richer musical narratives, adding to the enjoyment for fans witnessing this evolution.
Notably, the transformation in the rap section is striking. With Mark leaving the group, Jaemin, Jeno, and Ji-sung have made significant strides to balance the rap component. In songs like 'Saturday Drip', their unique styles are distinctly showcased, firmly establishing their presence. Thus, NCT DREAM continues to achieve consistent growth while simultaneously strengthening their cohesiveness as a team.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: SM Entertainment
