Author: Abby Graham
ENHYPEN is a K-pop group that consists of 7 members; JUNGWON, HEESEUNG, JAY, JAKE, SUNGHOON, SUNOO, and NI-KI. They have continuously been setting trends and making hit songs since November 30th, 2020, when they debuted with their EP “Given-Taken”. Since then, they have been making other albums: “Drunk-Dazed,” “Blessed-Cursed,” and now “Orange Blood”. Released on November 17th, 2023, this album consists of 7 songs: “Mortal,” “Sweet Venom,” “Still Monster,” “Blind,” “Orange Flower (You complete me),” “Sweet venom (English Version),” and “Sweet Venom (Featuring Bella Poarch)”. This album is different from what they have released in the past because it has a high-energy Maroon 5 vibe to it that emphasizes their skills and encapsulates who they are as a band. Throughout this album, they take on a new look: Jazzercise! Even down to their outfits and promotional photos they are straying from their old theme of “sports and vampires’ and into a new theme of “funky, lovey jazzercise”. I am sure Adam Levine would have released this album in 2010 if he had the chance.
“Sweet Venom” is the Main title song that almost reminds me of “Moves Like Jagger” by Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera. ENHYPEN provides us with a funky rhythm and sweet, smooth vocals during this song that works out on so many levels. However, inviting Bella Poarch to be on the track did nothing for this song. Though Poarch has a good voice, the song felt better without feminine vocals especially since she did not even give us a new verse; she just sang the original second verse. The music video (Linked above) for “Sweet Venom” is, in my humble opinion, one of the best videos that they have released so far, and the choreography for the song is really simple and easy to learn for those who enjoy learning K-pop dances! If they had different outfits on and not leg warmers I might have enjoyed the music video a smidge more, but their charisma and visuals make up for the fact that it looks like they are wearing capri skinny jeans. A favorite of mine would have to be the closing song, “Orange Flower (You Complete Me)”. It has a summer vibe to it that encapsulates the sweet, fun, and loving side of the album. It is a great way to end the album since they open with “Mortal”, a song about chasing after someone’s love, and close with the words “Finally you complete me / so I’m yours right now”.
Overall, this album is a change from what they usually release. Still, it is extremely hard to dislike. From “Sweet Venoms’” funky feel, to “Blinds” smooth vocals and ending with “Orange Flower (You Complete Me’s)” doting lyrics, this album is a huge hit with ENHYPENS fan base. So, if you enjoy Maroon 5’s earlier music or love Disney Channel Original Movie Soundtracks, this album is perfect for you! You can listen to this album anywhere from Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud to YouTube. Also, if you are a fan of ENHYPEN, or just in desperate need of some new room decorations you can buy the physical album online, bookstores, or your local Target. The album has two variations (K-SANA and KALPA versions) and both come with a CD, poster, postcard, photobook, stickers, fragrance card and two randomized photo cards. Give this album a listen! It is worth your time, and I know every song (except “Sweet Venom (Featuring Bella Poarch”) will be on repeat for at least the next three weeks!
Abby Graham | KXSU Music Reporter