A.C.E MAKES IT LOOK “effortless”
Written by Blue Camp
On November 7, 2023, A.C.E. dropped a pre-release single, “Effortless”, from their upcoming untitled album post-enlistment. It has been over 2 years since their last release and this comeback has been much anticipated by Choice, the group’s fandom. The group’s members had teased the release of a new song for some time but the announcement was confirmed the week before the release. Four of the five members who have completed mandatory military service participated in this pre-release, with Yuchan being the final member left to return. Donghun, WOW, Jun, and Byeongkwan bear their hearts in this single with sweet vocals in both English and Korean versions.
“EFFORTLESS” MV
The video itself is minimalistic with few distinct locations, but the effects and transitions used to enhance the videography make it stand out. The lighting is relatively dark as the setting seems to be in the streets of a metropolitan city at night, however a soft pink light is used to highlight the climax of the track with highlights on Byeongkwan and WOW.
Each member is in their own setting, with Donghun being in black and white while the others are lit majorly in blues and pinks. Lens flares and slow motion speeds are used to enhance the visuals of each member with a seamless flow from one to the other. While there is no official choreography, most members use their bodies to portray their emotions, each member showing their own style of dance in the process.
This concept is more mature than what they have done in the past and is reminiscent of something that Shawn Mendes or Harry Styles would create. This makes the comeback into the K-pop industry even more seamless because though they have been gone for 2+ years, which is a long time in terms of K-pop, they are still able to hold their own and make music that is up to date and engaging with fans, old and new alike.
The lyrics are nostalgic of a previous single A.C.E. released back in early 2021, “Down”, also fully in English. “Effortless” gives the air of maturity and adoration for a significant other in the most genuine way. The lyrics were written by British singer-songwriter Etham, which brings things full circle for the leader Jun because he previously released a cover of Etham’s song “12:45” to their YouTube account before he enlisted in 2021. The tempo of the song gives a sexy but relaxed vibe which makes this song easy to listen to. Their siren-like vocals pull the listener in and don’t let go until the end when you left wanting more. The group recently had their first fan concert since enlistment on November 11, 2023 in Seoul where they debuted this song for the first time in front of Choice. This song was widely received as a success and Choice are very excited to have A.C.E. back and making music.
With the return of Yuchan in late January, much more content and music is anticipated from this veteran group.
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