Cross Gene
“Game”
(Universal Music)



Cross Gene’s third EP “Game” is slow overall, considering the group’s talents in dance. For whatever reason, the dance tracks all take on a slower tempo, leaving the songs feeling outdated and reminiscent of the dance tracks of the past decade.

Perhaps the biggest culprit is “Noona, You,” which lacks any sense of personality. With an intro that sounds like the starting notes of a cardio workout mixtape, a bland melody and lyrics that take yet another whack at the tired trope of a younger guy trying to convince an older girl that he, too, is a man, “Noona, You” does Cross Gene no favors in differentiating their image.

Still, there are some interesting points to take note of on the album. “My Face” and “Energy” use synth sounds and influences of the complextro genre (which takes cues from dubstep and house) to create layers of basslines and lead melodies uncommon in K-pop, and rapper Casper shines, giving the listener a welcome break from the dragging, uneventful vocals.

With the exception of “Noona, You,” there aren’t any tracks that are completely, terribly misguided -- but Cross Gene, who are known among fans for their energy, could have definitely used a speed boost to help them along.

By Won Ho-jung (hjwon@heraldcorp.com)