A little over a year ago, KANG DANIEL dropped his fifth mini-album ACT, led by the single Electric Shock. The project includes four additional tracks, each carved around different shades of EDM, resulting in a modern, stylish record that showcases the versatility of his artistry. To make things even more exciting, one of the songs features a collaboration with CHUNG HA, adding a refreshing twist to the album.
Fast-forward to this year, the singer has already returned with his sixth mini-album Glow to Haze, spotlighting the title track Episode. While we’ll save a full review of Episode for another post, let’s dive into the ACT mini-album and see how each track stands.
1. Losing Myself
The album begins with Losing Myself, a vibrant EDM-driven opener. Built on heavy dubstep drums with edgy guitar riffs, the track leans slightly toward rock, giving it a powerful edge. However, while the instrumental packs a punch, KANG DANIEL’s vocals feel a little overpowered at times. The track also ends quite abruptly, which leaves you wanting more. Despite its short length, the raw energy and strong direction make it one of the more striking songs on the project.
2. Get Loose
Get Loose carries the potential of a sleek trap-inspired dance track. Unfortunately, the consistent use of distorted vocals throughout makes it harder for DANIEL’s performance to shine through. At first, the effect adds some texture and uniqueness, but its overuse becomes distracting. Beneath the distortion, his delivery feels relaxed and charismatic, but the production choice ultimately limits the song’s impact.
3. Electric Shock (Title Track)
Serving as the title track, Electric Shock embodies familiar elements of KANG DANIEL’s style, highlighting his steady and confident vocals. That said, the instrumental backing is underwhelming. The mid-tempo pop sound lacks dynamism, leaving the track with little “spark” despite its electrifying name. While the groove is subtle and the melodies are somewhat memorable, the hooks lean too heavily on predictable patterns, resulting in a track that feels skippable compared to the rest of the album.
4. Come Back To Me (ft. CHUNG HA)
One of the clear highlights of ACT is Come Back To Me, sung completely in English and featuring CHUNG HA. Their voices blend beautifully, making the song feel effortless and emotionally resonant. Paired with a soft EDM-pop instrumental enriched by gorgeous, string-like layers, the collaboration stands out as both soothing and memorable. It’s a track that showcases the strength of both artists harmonizing together.
5. 9 Lives
Closing out the album is 9 Lives, a track centered around resilience and optimism. With its uplifting message about facing challenges head-on, it leaves listeners with a sense of empowerment. The EDM arrangement drives the song forward, while DANIEL’s distinctive, husky tone makes the performance especially captivating. The chorus line, “Like I got 9 lives,” is catchy, punchy, and serves as a strong emotional climax.
Final Verdict
KANG DANIEL’s ACT may not be flawless, but it proves to be a compelling addition to his discography. While Electric Shock falls short of expectations as a title track, songs like Losing Myself, Come Back To Me, and 9 Lives more than redeem the mini-album. With experimental EDM styles, an exciting collaboration, and moments of genuine vocal charm, ACT is a project worth listening to, especially if you’re eager to explore KANG DANIEL’s evolving artistry.
