ARrC released their first EP album titled ‘AR^C’ on August 19, 2024. A fresh album with a strong message expressed using a plethora of musical styles, ‘AR^C’ is a bold and powerful attempt by the rookie group to step into the mainstream K-Pop world. ARrC (meaning Always Remember The Real Connection) debuted under Mystic Story Entertainment, a sub-label of SM Entertainment. Members Kien, Hyunin, Ziwoo, Choi Han, Doha, Jibeen, and Rioto reflect a strong musical synergy with this album that perfectly embodies their concept through varied musical styles.
The album ‘AR^C’ broadly reflects a motivational tone as the songs speak of accepting the true self and reaching heights in their own pace and ways. It is a 5-track album with each song having a character, a style, and a feeling of its own. The songs on the album are ‘S&S (sour and sweet)’, ‘light up’, ‘shadow’, ‘duality’, and ‘dummy – nu skull mix’.
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With a perfect blend of strong beats and unique concepts, the title track ‘S&S (sour and sweet)’ gives a great start to the album. It is interesting to see the group use the popular tale of ‘The Fox and the Grapes’ from Aesop’s Fables and give it its trendy and techy musical twist. The song is woven with the message of relentlessly working hard to reach higher goals (like the grapes on high grapevines). The music video checks all the requirements of a cool ensemble of dance performance, concepts, and visuals. One moment you’re in awe of the cute fox looks of the members and the next second you’re grooving to the catchy tunes and meaningful lyrics!
‘light up’ can be described as a song with a groove, a message, and a vibe that lights your mood up! Its lyrics of taking it slow and rising without hesitation bring a unique take on life. As the melodies speak of living to the fullest with a pace we like, it touches when it points at the losses like “A movie-like scene missed due to intense fighting”. Overall, it’s a good song that stands out from the usual music themes.
‘shadow’ is one of the most interesting components of the album. A heart-touching song like a warm hug of ‘I’m here with you’ mixed with the classy R&B and soul music touch – this is what ‘shadow’ is all about! The lyrics comfort the listeners, asking them not to hide behind the shadows anymore as ARrC will stay by their side. It is a wonderful piece in terms of musicality as the group has beautifully incorporated rhythm, blues, and soul tunes with an intense rise in beat in the bridge. With its uniqueness and beautiful message, this song will surely become a part of your playlist!
‘duality’ is an upbeat song that pushes you to embrace yourself as just the way you are. With its cheery tunes, this song becomes a symbol of how mistakes, flaws, and hardships cannot stop the beautiful you from growing. It is a song perfect for the days when you need a little dose of cheer and support!
Giving an energetic end to the album, ‘dummy – nu skull mix’ brings a surge of strong feelings to be the true self and choose not to be a dummy. A version of the song was released on July 26, 2024, as a pre-release single along with a music video. Rap parts dominate this song, bringing the perfect touch to the hip-hop style of music in this song. The style and lyrics complement very well in this song, making it a vital part of the album.
‘AR^C’ by ARrC is a ‘one-of-a-kind’ first step by a new K-Pop group, bringing a fresh set of music and themes for their listeners. With such versatility reflected in their musicality and performance, it is awaited to see what surprises the group holds for their fans in the future.
Written by – Eeshna Dashottar
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