NCT 127 are back with their highly anticipated fifth full-length album, Fact Check.
With Fact Check, NCT 127 deliver a full-bodied album in which listeners can fact check the group’s colour and skills; in the nine-track album listeners not only can find a strong title track, ‘Fact Check’, but a suite of b-sides of diverse genres proving that only NCT 127 have the musical ability to piece together.
The taglines of this album are straightforward; listeners should of course “Check the facts” and know that “That’s in the vibe”, as Mark says at the beginning of the title track ‘Fact Check’. The lead single is a dance track blending an intense synth loop and Afrobeats-inspired rhythm. The song blasts an unmissable catchy hook that will have listeners chanting it over and over.
In the Fact Check era, NCT 127 mix unique avant-garde sounds with tradition, including the beauty of Seoul and South Korea in the styling and the music video for ‘Fact Check’. As Deities of Seoul, in the music video, NCT 127 incorporates the richness of Seoul and harmonises with the city. ‘Fact Check’ was filmed in various locations in Seoul, from Gyeongbok Palace to Yeouido.
The groovy ‘Space’ is a dreamy mid-tempo track that will make listeners float in a zero gravity zone with its synth arrangements, background loops, and beat drops but mostly thanks to the vocal line and harmonisations adding layers to the whole experience. ‘Parade’ goes into that NCT 127 fun hip-hop vibe that highlights the group’s versatility and playful side.
‘Angel Eyes’ is a mid-tempo rock gem that will delight fans; this anthemic song gives off a summer-sounding vibe and its youthful rhythm will put everyone in a good mood. ‘Angel Eyes’ features lyrics written by Taeyong and Mark and has the whole NCT 127 shine with their perfect vocals and ad-libs.
The feel-good and carefree vibe keeps going with ‘Yatch’, a cool laid-back pop track that is perfect for those last-minute late summer escapes; enjoy the final warm days of summer, or early days of autumn, while watching the sunsets and listening to NCT 127 silky voices soundtracking the experience.
‘Je Ne Sais Quoi’ is that mysterious NCT 127 song that blends their signature rap with smooth R&B vocals. In the bridge, the group does the perfect job of adding layers to the song with the vocal line’s high notes bringing in a new set of emotions.
‘Love Is A Beauty’ sees lyrics co-written by Taeil, Taeyong and Mark; R&B sets the tone of this song; with minimal instrumentation the lyrics are at the forefront, evocative and sentimental lyrics are delivered by sublime vocal layering and harmonisation, and giving Johnny’s deep yet soft singing to shine truly. ‘Misty’ is an emotional ballad, co-written by Taeyong and Mark; the song opens with the gentle sound of rain and turns into a dramatic atmosphere; through the emotional musical arrangement and vocalisations, the group compares thinking of a loved one to an unexpected rain shower.
The album closes with ‘Real Life’, a light-pop track that conveys the magical feeling of being with a loved one with its upbeat rhythm and rich vocals to describe the heartfelt emotions.
NCT 127’s Fact Check – The 5th Album comes over one year after 2 Baddies – The 4th Album and nine months after the release of Ay-Yo – The 4th Album Repackage. 2 Baddies – The 4th Album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, making the group only the second K-Pop artist in history to land three albums in the Top 5. Moreover, the album has sold 3.2 million copies, becoming NCT 127‘s second triple million-selling album following Sticker (2021).
With Fact Check – The 5th Album, NCT 127 once again proves their impeccable talent in staying true to their NCT 127 sound while exploring new ways to deliver a more mature body of work. You can listen to the album on all streaming platforms.
