CRAZY

LE SSERAFIM’s fourth extended play (EP), CRAZY, released on August 30, 2024, reinforces their position as one of the most dynamic groups in K-pop. Coming off a series of successful projects and international endeavors, CRAZY showcases LE SSERAFIM’s growing versatility, confidence, and bold experimentation. The EP reflects the group’s fearless approach to music, a fitting embodiment of their name’s anagram, “I’m Fearless.” With five standout tracks, CRAZY offers a combination of energetic beats, powerful vocals, and introspective lyrics that push the boundaries of K-pop.

The EP opens with “Chasing Lightning,” an electrifying track that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the album. Featuring pulsating bass lines, vibrant synths, and powerful vocals from all five members Sakura, Kim Chae-won, Huh Yun-jin, Kazuha, and Hong Eun-chae the song speaks to the pursuit of dreams and ambitions with relentless determination. The seamless blend of pop and trap elements showcases LE SSERAFIM’s ability to innovate within familiar genres, keeping their sound fresh and exciting.

The title track, CRAZY, is the centerpiece of the album. Produced by a star-studded team including BloodPop®, AObeats, and “hitman” Bang, the song is a testament to LE SSERAFIM’s bold musical style. Its addictive hooks and infectious chorus make it a surefire hit, while the members’ vocal and rap performances highlight their growth as artists. The track’s message of embracing chaos while staying grounded resonates with the group’s fearless ethos. The inclusion of Huh Yun-jin as a contributing writer and vocal arranger reflects her growing influence on the group’s musical direction, further enhancing the song’s authenticity.

Pierrot, the third track, takes a more introspective turn. With its darker undertones and metaphorical lyrics, the song explores themes of identity and performance, using the image of the classic clown figure to convey feelings of being misunderstood. The song’s production, led by Iluvjulia and SCORE from 13, is both haunting and hypnotic, creating an atmospheric soundscape that contrasts with the EP’s more upbeat tracks. Kazuha and Hong Eun-chae’s vocal performances add depth and emotion, demonstrating their ability to handle complex, nuanced material.

“1-800-hot-n-fun,” which premiered during LE SSERAFIM’s Coachella performance in April 2024, is a high-energy collaboration with legendary guitarist Nile Rodgers. The song mixes elements of disco and funk, bringing a fresh, retro-inspired sound to the EP. It’s a perfect party anthem that highlights LE SSERAFIM’s international appeal, featuring playful lyrics, infectious rhythms, and a chorus that’s impossible not to dance to. The track reflects the group’s willingness to experiment and collaborate with global icons.

The final track, 미치지 못하는 이유 (Crazier), closes the album on an emotional note. Delving into the internal struggles of chasing success while maintaining sanity, the song offers a more vulnerable side of the group. With powerful, emotive vocal performances from all members, particularly Kim Chae-won and Sakura, the song speaks to the delicate balance between ambition and self-care.

With CRAZY, LE SSERAFIM continues to prove their evolution as artists, blending genres, experimenting with sound, and delivering powerful messages. Each track showcases the members’ unique talents while reinforcing their collective strength as a group, cementing their place in the K-pop industry and beyond.