ALL (H)OURS “NO DOUBT” Pushes Boundaries

ALL (H)OURS is back with their EP, “No Doubt”. They debuted on January 10, 2024, and have been carrying K-pop’s electronic genre ever since. With songs like “GIMME GIMME” and “SHOCK”, ALL (H)OURS have been bringing a refreshing take on the over-saturated “noise music” genre that has been popularized by similarly smaller boy groups. Their new EP continues to push boundaries both through their controversial demonic concept and title track “DEAD MAN WALKING”. From start to finish, this EP showcases ALL H(OURS) versatility.

The EP opens with “NO DOUBT”, a chilling instrumental full of haunting sonic allusions to a haunted church. With references to ticking clock towers and creepy laughter layered over an eventual trap beat, the song sets the tone for the title track to follow. The title track, “DEAD MAN WALKING,” keeps the listener on their toes. While structurally the song is consistent with their previous title tracks, the darker elements, such as choir chants and electric guitar highlighted verses, provoke an unnerving feeling that perfectly complements their concept. The song is instrumental-heavy with little to no vocal harmonies and an emphasis on punchy syllables. The only thing I was unhappy with was the length; 2:30 was not enough to really explore how much could be done with such a complex instrumental. The music video shows the members seemingly being auctioned off to demons. The members wear dark and sexy clothing, oftentimes chained up or without shirts. The addition of dramatic makeup and blood shows a mysterious yet raw vision of the members.

“7 o’clock” was a refreshing change from the darker themes of the album. It’s a cutesy upbeat pop-rock track, and it’s a unit track that highlights the member’s pure vocals. Whistling, beat stutters, and harmonies excellently highlight a softer and more delicate sound, deeply contrasting with their title track. Similarly, “Piece of Me” is a nice break from the intense vibes from the intro and title track. This track makes me feel oddly nostalgic, reminding me of peak Wanna One or EXO. Harmonic vocals and clean, straightforward rap verses drive this track forward. Delayed beat drops in the chorus with stuttering melodies emulate the peak of the 3rd generation’s hits. 

ALL (H)OURS show their strengths through this multifaceted EP. Starting strong and ending soft, they show they’re ready to tackle any genre they can get their hands on.

Written by Taylor McKay