It's been a long time coming for Wonho and his fans but the day has finally come for his long awaited (re)debut. Love Synonym is the first taste we get of a fresh, new, solo Wonho. This album, even though it's only 24 minutes long, says so much. It's an emotional roller-coaster that is full of so many twists, turns and pleasant surprises. Love Synonym is unexpected and exciting; it's fresh and inventive.
Losing You was the lead up single to this record and it really set the tone that this would be an emotional album. And while there are it's emotional moments with the sweet ballad, I just, and Losing You (which I wrote about here), this album hits you unexpectedly with some very intense and sexy moments. The title track and first song on the record, Open Mind is full of sexy grooves and sexy lyrics. Open Mind is very reminiscent of 70s or 80s music that just gets you grooving. The bass electrifies you and you find yourself intoxicated by it almost instantly. It's a sound I have never heard in K-pop before. Then there's the closer of the record, WITH YOU, with is dark and intense. "I'm gonna make you groove tonight," he sings over this sexy instrumental. It also features some Spanish lyrics that prove he is ready for world domination.
This album features both Korean and English versions of the singles, Losing You and Open Mind. While that can make it feel repetitive, by the time you finish the Korean chunk of the record you feel almost refreshed by the English version of Open Mind. Wonho included these on here because he wanted to communicate better with his English speaking fans. But I also think it will really help him cross into the Western market. Open Mind is certainly something that could be successful in this market and with his soft, sexy image this could be successful.
Love Synonym is an album that takes you on an emotional roller-coaster. The tracks go from a fun dancey song, to a soft ballad, to dance track, etc. His versatility is already shining through. Plus, a lot of these tracks were penned by him which shows how strong he is not only as a performer but a songwriter and composer. He's showing that he can do anything on this record.
Wonho is no stranger to the K-pop world but Love Synonym is unexpected in the best ways possible. There has yet to be a soloist whose started off so strongly in my eyes. Every track on this album caters to his strengths. He wears his heart on his sleeve but also knows how to get you moving. This album is certainly one of the best releases of the year and I would not be surprised if it makes the top of my list.
Favorite Track(s): All of them
I mean it when I say this album is perfect. It's perfectly track listed and every song really fits well together. Not only that but, this album has a sound for everyone. If you love groovy 80s music turn on Open Mind (there's the English version too if you're turned off by Korean lyrics). If you want some lowkey jams, Lost In Paradise is for you. If you want to cry, Losing You. It's so versatile that picking a favorite track would feel like a crime. Depending on my mood and taste it could change. It's why I love this record.
Check out the music video for the title track, Open Mind, below and check out Love Synonym #1: Right For Me on your preferred streaming service.
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