DON’T STOP

TEEN TOP

TEEN TOP, a well-respected K-pop group that debuted 16 years ago, has returned with a new mini album, titled DON’T STOP. This title might as well be a reflection on the group’s longevity, outlasting many of the K-pop industry’s fads and phases. Running a brisk 16 minutes, or 5 tracks in total, DON’T STOP is chock-full of high points in its brief running time, so let’s get into it.

First, here’s a rundown of the current members of TEEN TOP. Niel is the lead singer of TEEN TOP, and the one with the thick lips. Chunji is a visual star of the group, having become famous for his wink during the 2011 “Supa Luv” video, itself a relic of better times. Ricky is a former child actor; he has retained his babyface but has attained a ripped body too. Changjo is the resident heartthrob; he is quiet but also known for writing and posting romance novels on the web.

For TEEN TOP, dance has always come first. And that shows in their new mini album, with all the new songs being dance tracks (other than “See My Angel,” an ode to their fanbase, ANGEL). The first two tracks, “DON’T STOP” and “Everglow,” set the infectious tone that make these songs fit for the club. They passed my litmus test: Could I dance to these songs, even by myself? Whether intentionally or not, they have a very early 2010s vibe that represents a high point in EDM-infused pop. For me, the best song on the mini album is “Miss Right (DJ Remix).” It is a ridiculously fast-paced song full of EDM-inspired bass drops. With their new collection of songs, TEEN TOP thoroughly proves that old school does it best.

DON’T STOP is out now wherever you stream music.