K-pop quartet 2AM is managed and trained by JYP Entertainment, the major South Korean record label behind big names like Rain and Wonder Girls. It's no surprise the boy band's first full album release comes with so much hype. Sadly, the 11-track debut, Saint o'Clock, is nothing to get excited about. It's a lot of your typical K-pop type of songs and it doesn't add anything to a label that's already packed with boy bands.
There's a definite theme running through the album: most tracks are laced with the signature K-pop electronic hum, which blends well with the acoustics. But it's not necessary to make the chord progressions and lyrics follow such a set pattern for so much of the album. Some spontaneity would have worked wonders.
The subject matter will appeal to the target audience but, again, variety in lyrics would have made this 46-minute album better all round.
The second track, You Wouldn't Answer My Calls, is definitely worth a listen. Check out the music video if you like those long Korean MVs. Be warned, it's a tear-jerker.
2AM falls below expectations with Saint o'Clock. The guys have the image, but they need to step up the music. Skip this one, cross your fingers and hope the next one will be a little more inspired.
