P1Harmony are Killing it with First Feature Album 'Killin It'

Describing P1Harmony as cool sounds obvious, but the five-piece consisting of Keeho, Theo, Jongseob, Jiung, Intak, and Soul put out music that is both distinctive and bold, which has also led for their reputation to grow. Their positive attitude has always reflected in their lyrics, and this is exactly what they’ve chosen to do with their first full-length album, Killin it.

In all honesty, a full-length album is a rarity in K-pop, so seeing it coming for these energetic guys, is a real treat. Combining Hip-hop, K-Pop, and R&B, this release is produced very well. Maknae and Rapper Jongseob co-wrote the lyrics for the album alongside fellow rapper Intak, and vocalists Keeho and Jiung.

Their opening title single, 때깔 (Killin’ It), retains the classic P1Harmony style with a vibrant chorus that is full of confidence: “I’m Superstar / Already know that (You, you already know) / We killin' it.'' However, the production of the song is jarring, and the use of the loud and loop heavy instrumentals might slightly irritate one’s ear.

For me, Everybody Clap is the track to play if you need a boost of energy, the upbeat number has a cheerful pre-chorus of “Everybody stand up (clap) / If you are happy and you know it, enjoy the rhythm, show it (clap.)” The next verse is where Jongseob encourages us to join in and forget our troubles, “You can join us, my crew, keep goin' up / Cheers, drink everything for today / Clap it, clap it, to this empty space, come in.” Between the rapping of Jongseob and Intak, and the vocals of Jiung, the music’s dynamic works well. Personally, I think Everybody Clap would have been a stronger choice for their title track.

The album as a whole has a beautiful blend of 90’s and 00’s vibes, particularly in Late Night Calls and 꿍꿍이 (Love Story). Both are easy listening, and do a great job of giving respite from the previous tracks. Leader and main vocalist, Keeho, deserves praise for his vocals; he has a distinct, clean vocal palette that always sounds like he’s serenading the listener.

If Everybody Clap didn’t get you moving and grooving, then the R&B track 2nite will do. 2nite has a funky beat to get you in the party mood, “We’re gonna party,” which effortlessly blasts into “Oh no, here we go.” The mood shifts into the electric chorus, which is sung in Korean and English, ensuring that no-one is left out, “Don't be shy, just come in.”

After all the partying, the members take the time to make sure the listeners are well rested with the melodic Pop number I See U. It’s the perfect closing number, not only is it a sentimental love letter to their fandom, P1ece but was also written and composed by Jongseob, Intak, Jiung, and Keeho. With the final lyric of the album “One thing that I lovе is you” it's a sweet gift for fans and will be a wonderful live number for future shows.
Killin 'It has plenty of winning moments and shows that in just the short three years since debut, P1Harmony have grown in confidence, and the result is a great collection of mood boosting songs that, let’s face it, we all need more than ever right now.