7 hours ago, Ateez released their highly anticipated new album Treasure Ep. Fin: All to Action. This means it’s time for another music review, specifically, a review of the lead single “Wonderland.”
My opinion on the song? It’s really catchy, and it certainly matches the overall vibe and aesthetic that seems to define Ateez as a group. For example, I’ve noticed a recurring pattern of really strong melodies that are reminiscent of powerful and soaring orchestral music. If you aren’t sure of what I mean, then check out other hit singles like “Wave” or “Pirate King.”
However, we’re talking about “Wonderland” and its accompanying music video. The song and video start with lead rapper Hongjoong, which is fitting since he’s Ateez’s leader, who opens the first verse in English. The lyrics are strong and meaningful, speaking to the group’s climactic rise to the top. Why does anyone still doubt Ateez? They have proven themselves to be one of the K-Pop industry’s most promising rookie acts, and for good reason.
The video then transitions between multiple cuts of the group’s members as the vocal line takes over the second verse. There are a lot of amazing visuals, and I’m not just referring to the group’s various members. Actually, the darker imagery is quite fitting for the song and I was a big fan of the video’s cinematography (kudos to the director). Finally, power vocalist Jongho then takes the refrain, leading the song into its first pre-chorus.
As for the chorus itself? The whispery, ASMR vocals are quite provoking, “Let’s go,” promising that the group is “on its way” which I suppose could be interpreted in different ways. Nonetheless, this is our first glimpse at the song’s impressive choreography subsequently overlain with several cuts showcasing the members and their individual concepts.
Also, the marching band was a really cool touch to the song and video. I liked how it filled out more space and also brought out the melody in the background.
This leads us to Mingi’s verse which was top-notch like always. I love Mingi’s deeper voice because it seems to add another element to the group’s overall dynamic. He also manages to stand apart from other rappers in the industry which is incredibly important. Moreover, I love the fire in the background and how it surrounds him because it quite literally transforms him into a burning flame that has no end in sight.
And nice Jack Sparrow reference. We get it, Ateez, you guys love pirates and the ocean.
Anyway, Mingi’s verse is followed by the re-appearance of the pre-chorus. However, the viewer is graciously provided new visuals that, quite frankly, reminded me of Harry Potter with the overlapping staircases. “The staircases change, Harry.” Needless to say, I was a big fan.
“Breaking the wall.” Yeah, that definitely seems like a bigger promise to me, and I really do hope Ateez proves to be the group who breaks down boundaries and re-defines K-Pop for the better. I have a lot of faith in these guys because they have never disappointed me with their music.
And they’ve only been around since 2018?
Finally, at around 2:44 in the music video, I noticed a giant door opening where all the Ateez members had gathered. Since this album happens to be the last in the series, I can’t help but assume this visual is symbolic of the next chapter of their story? If so, I can’t wait to see what else the group has in store for us.
In conclusion, it’s a great time to be a fan of K-Pop music.
