PREVIOUS RECAPS: Episode One // Episode Two // Episode Three // Episode 4
In the beginning of the episode, the Planet Ok and Planet C survivors have been revealed to one another through a dramatic falling curtain flourish. I do not know how they obtained everybody located behind both sides of the curtain with out one another noticing (although I’d wager good cash that they did discover and needed to pretend shock). Gosh, the variety of Planet C boys seemed so small.
This primary efficiency spherical is made up of songs from artists who all gained the very best rookie award at MAMA, although many of the songs aren’t debut title tracks. We’ve obtained TVXQ’s Rising Solar in there, which along with being my second favourite Ok-pop music of all time is an… formidable selection, to say the least. (And by “formidable,” I imply there’s no manner these guys are going to do it justice)
And predictably, MNET has structured the principles in order that we get an “Avengers workforce” stuffed with all of the standout, top-ranked contributors. The producers LOVE this trope and refuse to let it go regardless of how predictable it’s develop into. And naturally, the highest-ranking group will get to select their music first. The caste system is robust this season.
Anyway, this spherical is about up in order that two groups carry out the identical music and problem one another for the win. It’s an actual “David & Goliath” idea, because the lower-ranked groups have an opportunity to win extra factors in the event that they problem the higher-ranked ones and win. A number of technique, right here.
At one level, one of many teams was panicking, saying “we don’t have a most important singer!” I’m like… welcome to Ok-pop proper now, guys! “Primary singers” aren’t in vogue, sadly. Actually, so many trainees have been avoiding the primary vocal place just like the plague. I suppose they don’t need that dreaded voice crack second that will get replayed time and again. In the meantime, rap and dance have been well-liked in each group. Le sigh.
At one level, a member was virtually compelled into the “sub-rapper” spot simply because he was the shortest! Not cool. I’m rooting for that shorty, now.
Additionally, we have been handled to a very horrible rendition of Rising Solar’s iconic excessive observe again and again. Thanks, producers. I hate it.
Actually, that energy observe turned a recurring drama all through the episode. You already know, in case you deal with one thing an excessive amount of you’re certain to psyche your self out. However you probably have any doubts whether or not or not you may hit an enormous observe, you in all probability shouldn’t be making an attempt it within the first place.
Okay, now it’s time to get this present on the street. We gained’t see all performances this week as a result of every comes with roughly two hours of behind-the-scenes footage (very slight exaggeration, there), however the first spherical kicks off this week. The efficiency order was determined by a collection of foolish video games that’s principally simply an commercial for one of many present’s sponsors (Bibigo). It’s ALWAYS product placement with MNET.
S-Class (Stray Children) Crew 2
It is a “one star” workforce, that means their ranks are all very low. They’re battling an “all star” workforce, which is clearly not truthful however creates good TV drama, I suppose. Though they’re “Crew 2,” they’re performing first. Complicated.
This efficiency was an actual combined bag. Min Jae is sort of a robust performer and anchored the stage, however there have been additionally some downright terrible vocal moments from different members (Han Wen, principally) and it’s not like this can be a vocally demanding music. Plus, it felt like they type of misplaced the beat because the music went on. Among the rap felt a bit aimless. I suppose that’s what you get with a “one star” workforce, although.
S-Class (Stray Children) Crew 1
That is that aforementioned “all star” workforce. Clearly, their efficiency is a lot better than that final one. Thanks for eliminating all stress, MNET! They actually nailed the vitality, even when I don’t personally like this music or model of efficiency. It was very polished and debut-ready. Largely, although, I’m simply joyful I don’t have to listen to this music once more.
My Selection: Crew 1
Voting Outcomes: Crew 1 (as if it was ever in query)
Plot Twist (TWS) Crew 1
I’ve stated this earlier than, however I really assume “refreshing” songs like this are quite a bit tougher to drag off than the badass shouty numbers. You actually must get the stability of character and vocal expertise excellent. The large story behind this workforce is that among the members don’t match this idea due to their deep voices and “manly” presentation. They’re type of bitter apples about it, too.
Anyway, I assumed this efficiency was fairly good. The vocals have been stable throughout the board and the vitality was vivid and buoyant. I preferred the addition of a climactic excessive observe, too. In fact, the energy of the particular music does plenty of heavy lifting too.
