'can PIXY handle the dark?'

PIXY's second album, "Fairyforest: Temptation," is faithful to its title. Throughout the EP, the world building of the fairy forest takes on a darker tone. As such, PIXY guide the listener through a journey of danger, temptation, and finally hope.

The "Intro (End of the Forest)" is transportive in its two distinct parts. The first half of the intro carries a pronounced sense of danger, but the second half is what makes the track stand out. This melody appears to be free, but the underlying entanglement reminds the listener they are trapped in a forest of temptation. The deception of the enchanted forest becomes the backdrop to the story in this EP.

PIXY take an even darker turn with the first of the double title tracks. “Addicted” is not nearly as subtle as the intro in its telling of temptation. The dreaminess of the "Intro" is found slightly in the bridge but it does not dwell on it for long. "Addicted" ultimately defers to the abrasive and intense obsessiveness of temptation that peaks in the outro.

Contrastingly, the second title track “Bewitched”, is an immersive enchantress to the listener. PIXY use their vocals to create a dizzying state of allure and temptation. Different elements are added to each section and build the track into a sophisticated yet dynamic song. Most importantly, the bridge and outro return to the dreaminess of the 2nd half of the "Intro" that I so dearly loved.

PIXY do not offer a break as they transition into the funky “Moonlight”. Although the track is considerably upbeat, it still retains the darkness that has been present throughout the whole album. The bass guitar in combination with the use of lower notes add to the sensation of feeling completely trapped by love but inevitably enjoying it:

“You overflow me

more chaos

all night long

You and I dance like this”

Disappointingly the EP ends like most EPs do. Yes, you guessed it, a ballad. What does save “Still with me (To. Winxy)” is not the music by itself but its lyrical accompaniment. “Still with me” is an uplifting piano ballad (as most fan songs are). Even so, the lyrics are on brand with the theme of entanglement in the dark forest. Pixy has found light in their treacherous environment. Even though they haven’t completely left the intoxicating forest, there is still a necessary guiding light; their fans.

“I can see your eyes

Even in the dark void

I can hear your voice

Even where sounds devoid”

Final Comments

PIXY have impressed me with their clean and precise production. Never losing sight of their theme, Fairyforest: Temptation is the much needed EP in time for Halloween. Unlike most fairytale styled songs in k-pop, the music does not tell prehistoric tales. Rather, PIXY lean into the darkness of a spooky otherworldly forest in a modern way. The lyrics often reflect this darkness in a perpetual state of danger and desire.

Regrettably however, the EP feels slightly juvenile. This style may be too much for a new group to grasp and execute without being overwhelmed. At times it felt as if the weight of the themes and the music itself eclipsed the artist. This is mostly seen on “Addicted” and “Bewitched”. Fairyforest: Temptation is a high quality album, however in future PIXY must learn how to balance the dramatic with their current group prowess in order to create a realistic and believable picture of the intense themes.

Recommended songs:

Bewitched, Moonlight

Rate:

8/10