FML: 10th Mini Album (Carat Ver.)

The K-pop groups first offering of 2023, Seventeens tenth EP FML continued their global rise as one of their strongest-selling efforts to date. Topping charts in Korea and Japan, the six-song set also debuted at number two on the U.S. main album chart. Judging from the title track (the midtempo hip-hop slow burn "F*ck My Life"), its clear the crew are pushing outside the boundaries of the typically sanitized K-pop realm, opting for hardened, real-life introspection that laments the state of the world and personal struggles. Its not all dour, however, as "Super" pulses to life with a booming beat, euphoric build-up, and a popping drop. "Fire" is similarly invigorating, showcasing the attitude and lyrical delivery of the "Hiphop Team" unit of the group. The "Performance Team" tackles "I Dont Understand but I Luv U," a rich, steamy dose of hazy, atmospheric production. "Dust" highlights the harmony and high notes of the "Vocal Team," set to a blissful, synth-heavy bop that transports listeners back to the day-glo 80s. While FML doesnt stray too far from what fans would expect, its still a big step into a more mature sphere and a fresh chapter in their evolution. ~ Neil Z. Yeung