GFriend Makes a Comeback with 'Crossroads'
GFriend (여자친구) joined the BigHit family in 2019, and their third album is their first venture under the new parent company. Even before merging, GFriend has had multiple hits and intricate music videos that fans theorized; so members Sowon, Yerin, Eunha, Yuju, SinB, and Umji are no strangers to this. Although it wasn’t until recently that the official storyline was explained when BigHit Labels dropped, “A Tale of the Glass Bead: Previous Story” on January 20.
“Crossroads” is the culmination of this story line and includes references to older music videos. It is more somber and melancholic than their previous lead singles. The lyrics express the longing for the friendship that they once had, “how far have you drifted / whichever road I take, they all turn into you / someday you will know it too.”
Labyrinth as an album shows the listeners GFriend's versatility. Starting off with the title track, “Labyrinth” is more upbeat than “Crossroads” with its newtro instrumentals (“newtro,” meaning new and retro), blending an old techno sound with more up to date beats.
Alongside Source Music’s usual line-up of writers, BigHit composers also contributed to GFriend’s album. Labyrinth features lyrics by “hitman”bang and ADORA, such as in the soft guitar-driven “From Me,” which feels like it could be on a K-drama OST.
“Here We Are” starts like a light pop song but builds up to be a classic powerful ballad with smooth transitions, and “Eclipse” blends in Latin beats with their signature wind instrumentals. It might sound like a surprising mix but it is one of the most upbeat songs on this album! This ride wraps off with “Dreamcatcher.” It is a mystical track with an airy sound with sparkle sounds. The song is so smooth, it’s similar to silk.
We can’t wait to see what happens next with GFriend! With their amazing storyline and music, there’s no doubt that it will be amazing like Labyrinth. What was your favorite track on this album? Tell us below!
Cover Image: GFriend (Source Music)
Written by Stephanie Lemus
