TXT’s comebacks have been divided between sequence of albums and particular “minisodes” that provide temporary breaks from the lore. This branding doesn’t actually have an effect on the music. There have been highlights from each codecs. The group discovered particularly strong footing in 2021 when their title tracks embraced angsty pop/rock. The teasers for brand spanking new single Deja Vu appeared to vow a return to this type, however the tune by no means totally embraces its strengths.

Deja Vu is centered by a robust melodic refrain. This hook echoes the serpentine construction of previous HYBE efforts — most notably BTS’s similarly-paced Faux Love from 2018. It’s an efficient excessive level for the monitor, delivering a shot of emotion in a really catchy package deal. The remainder of the monitor circles round this melodic level, for higher or worse. The verses make use of a rhythmic sing discuss that hold the momentum going however don’t supply highlights of their very own.

My largest gripe about Deja Vu is its manufacturing. In case you’re going to focus on a extra reserved, downbeat power your instrumental higher be lush and atmospheric. The tinny lure percussion simply isn’t doing it for me. Not solely does it sound dated, however the prominence of the hello hats steals consideration from the evocative synth textures beneath. These parts struggle for consideration, making the monitor really feel concurrently uninteresting and overstuffed. Humorous sufficient, the music video ends with an anthemic rock instrumental barely current within the precise monitor. This power would have complimented the punch in Deja Vu‘s refrain and delivered the sonic sequel to 2021’s 0X1=LOVESONG we’ve all been ready for. Alas, it was not meant to be.

Grade: B