In addition to actual debuts, “pre-debuts” have become a thing for K-pop idols. I’m not entirely sure what the point is apart from building hype without taking a huge financial risk, but the more music we get the better so I can’t complain. I.MET.U is an upcoming girl group from (checks notes) TikTok survival series Time Turner. Yes, TikTok.
With this information, you might expect Velvet Trigger to last about twenty seconds. In actuality, the song is not only complete but also confident and exciting. I’d go as far as saying this is one of the year’s best girl group debuts… except it’s not actually a debut! Forgoing most of the industry’s current trends, the song opts for a synth-soaked dance beat that’s a bit retro but mostly just refined and stylish. Refreshingly, Velvet Trigger is sung all the way through, anchored by a deceptively catchy hook that spotlights the girls’ warm tones.
While the track will not win any awards for originality, its sleek dance energy is very welcome in K-pop. The production has a simple, timeless appeal, choosing sounds that will work just as well ten years from now as they do in the moment. The same can be said for the group’s unaffected performance. It’s straightforward in the best way and hints at great potential going forward. I don’t know how many people will hear this song given their agency’s limited reach, but I’m definitely rooting for their success.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 8 |
| RATING | 8.5 |
