It’s been a while since I did a music review. Well I have had a good long listen and can finally give some thoughts on Amber’s new release. When I first heard she was to be releasing a solo track, I was so excited to see what she’d bring to the fore! With her individual style and attitude, I was sure she’d bring us something intriguing and fresh.
Shake That Brass Review
Her first offering is a trombone tinkering tune called ‘Shake That Brass’. Amber raps and Taeyeon chimes in from time to time with a ‘yeah’ and ‘uh huh.’ It’s fine. I don’t mind listening to this song, but I’m not exactly blown away by it either.
I do get why SM Entertainment wanted to go with this song and the visuals of the MV. Why alienate Amber’s fans with something that would go against her image and what she is known for?
At the same time, I think we need to listen to the rest of her album! These songs are a complete departure from her title track and in my opinion, they’re much stronger.
First of all they showcase Amber’s voice. It makes me wonder why they needed Taeyeon for ‘Shake that Brass’ when Amber can clearly sing.
I present you with
Evidence A.
Beautiful
Beautiful was penned and composed by Amber herself.
Yes, Amber! You go rake in those royalties! *high fives*
It’s an honest soulful song with a simple melody. That’s not to say that it’s a bad thing because I love acapella /acoustic guitars songs. The simplicity helps to amplify the genuine emotions of this personal song.
Evidence B
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXkIOHxMm5Y
Love Run is my favourite song. It has this epic enduring beat and feel to it! When I was listening to the song, I was already imagining the MV shot in black and white, with Amber looking pensive on a lonely beach! On first listen it’s romantic and sad.
Afterwards, I found out that this song is about Hachiko. This is the story of a little dog that was waiting for his dead owner to return for him. This just makes this song about a million times sadder now.
Those are my two favourites songs from her album, but everything is golden! What are your favourite tracks?
More background
For more background on Amber’s solo, I recommend watching her appearance on After School Club. She explains that she’s actually been working on her material for four years. It was only when she felt she was ready, that she took her songs to SM.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWiQJvHGhL4
I think Amber’s in a really unique position and she keeps flipping expectations. You expect one thing from her and she’ll give you something else. I love that! I can’t wait to see what she does next.
