There’s always something so exciting when new music drops – the uncertainty and anticipation of what the album might hold, especially in K-pop. The genre itself is on another level when it comes to creativity and vibrancy, never feeling dull or lacklustre. One group consistently goes the extra mile to embody all of that while keeping things genuinely fun – and that, of course, is P1Harmony. Back with their 8th mini-album DUH!, the six members once again combine their talent, recognisable style, and playful energy. Music should spark joy or stir emotion at its core, and this release does just that.

The title track DUH! is influenced by 90s old-school hip-hop and was co-written and composed by all six members, Keeho, Theo, Jiung, Soul, Intak, and Jongseob. The album sees the boys take creative control throughout. Though born in the 2000s, they’ve nailed the essence of a ‘90s throwback sound. For those of us who grew up in that era, it’s dripping with nostalgia – from punchy, bass-heavy beats to background sirens. It instantly transports you back to after-school hours spent watching MTV or The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

One of P1Harmony’s greatest strengths is their ability to balance humour with intention. While the members are undeniably funny and charismatic, they also use their platform to challenge stereotypes. In the track Pretty Boy, written and composed by leader Keeho, the group confronts the label head-on, refusing to view it as a slur. Toxic masculinity continues to stigmatise anyone who doesn’t conform to rigid, often Western, ideals of masculinity, especially those who express femininity. But really, what defines masculine or feminine when gender itself is such a fluid concept? Set against an Afrobeat backdrop, the song flips the script. The group embraces their identity, celebrates their appearance, and demands to be seen on their terms. And honestly? They’ve earned it. “Equal, that’s me that you want to see. Pretty girls like pretty boys like me. Say my name (pretty, pretty) / I’m pretty, pretty boy.”

What stands out about DUH! isn’t just the music, it’s the entire vibe. From the EDM whirlwind of Flashy to the bold saxophone-driven Over and Over, which at times feels so exotic it’s like a sonic trip around the world, the album beats with confidence. While the group’s past releases have dabbled in experimentation, DUH! hits full throttle. It’s as if the success of their last two albums handed them a golden ticket to play freely in their creative sandbox – a space that not only puts them at ease but also overflows with the kind of joy that’s impossible not to feel.

Each of the six songs packs a punch in its unique way. While production-wise, it could easily be overstimulating, it instead carries a touch of je ne sais quoi that the boys manage to pull off flawlessly. A perfect example of this is on the closing track, Work. Yes, there are more than enough songs titled that, but what the boys have created is a sultry anthem for an after-work party. In terms of sound, it’s as if the beats of the ’90s and the bass of the ’00s became best friends, resulting in something effortlessly cool. Written by the group’s youngest rapper, Jongseob, the track shows not only his lyrical skill but also the confidence with which he raps, paired with undeniable charm that’s hard to ignore. If anything, you’ll want to put it on repeat.

Is it different compared to their past albums? Absolutely. I applaud anyone who continues to explore and evolve their style because not only does it benefit the artist, but it also gives fans an incredibly diverse setlist when the tour comes around. This was more than proof for those who caught them on their P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H:UTOPiA]. Who else could confidently pull off bold sounds and styles while cheekily flaunting their talent? P1Harmony… Duh!

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Written by Kirsty Bright

Featured image courtesy of FNC Entertainment

_{View of the Arts is an online publication dedicated to films, music, and arts, with a strong focus on the Asian entertainment industry. With rich content already available to our readers, we aim to expand our reach and grow alongside our audience by delving deeper into emerging platforms such as K-pop and Asian music more broadly. At the same time, we remain committed to exploring the vibrant and ever-evolving global landscape of film, music, and the arts, celebrating the immense talent and creativity that define these industries worldwide.}