It’s been nearly 15 months since we last got a fromis_9 comeback, an eternity in the K-pop landscape. Much like groups like IZ*ONE and X1, fromis were subject to an uncertain future after the investigations into MNET led reality shows led to the discovery of heavy ethical and technical misconduct. Thankfully, the group were given a life and have finally returned with their new mini album, ‘My Little Society’.
Despite the circumstances, a comeback after such a long hiatus needs to be big. It needs to be strong and instantly engaging. I have been frothing at the mouth for a fromis comeback but I didn’t want another FUN either. So does lead single, Feel Good live up to these lofty expectations? Well, if my first few listens are a good indicator, then Feel Good (Secret Code) might just be my second favourite fromis_9 single yet.
Many groups have hopped on the retro train over the past few months and I couldn’t be happier. I personally find it much more enjoyable than the kind of meandering, near melody devoid future bass and trap infused singles that we were treated to in spades at the start of the year. It’s a trend that’s resulted in a number of fantastic singles and Feel Good is another addition to that list. The track opens with a funky as hell instrumental, complimented by a filtered repetition of the tracks title. Rather than immediately hit you with the full brunt of the instrumental, Feel Good gradually fades in, from a more muffled opening before a sudden, short-lived synth at the 15 second mark heralds the introduction of a more ”full” instrumental. I love me some groove and this backing track is pure groove through and through. The girls give an equally charismatic performance throughout, shifting between mature and caffeinated vocal delivery with ease.
This sense of groove and complete songcraft extends to the chorus, which delivers a fully throated centrepiece that manages to be instantly addictive. I don’t think the melody is as strong as something like Love Bomb or To Heart but the sheer number of addictive hooks here are more than enough to compensate. A little scare appears at the end of the first chorus where the music drops out as if to indicate another momentum killing trap breakdown. Thankfully, Feel Good knows its strengths, continuing the delirious retro inspired goodness of its instrumental throughout the track. It’s all great stuff and a fantastic return to form for fromis_9.
Verses: 9
Chorus: 8
Production: 9
Performance: 9
Final Rating: 8.75/10
KBopped 
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