Some Thoughts About SHINee's 2018 Comeback

So, SHINee's back in Korea with new songs - lush, forest-y dance tracks, and a colourful and surreal style which looks like a high fashion editorial and, for some reason, involves orange peels and green screened goo. It's magical, drawing on colour in a way that looks like a paint palette with a hint of iridescence. A smattering of pastels amongst earthy and bright colours. The songs are perhaps some of their best yet.

All screenshots in this post come from SHINee's 'Good Evening' music video.

It's inherently strange and complicated as a fan watching them return. On one hand, it's wonderful to see them again, performing, the familiar shapes and movements and at the same time something fresh. On the other, it's a swift, dull blow to the chest to see them and be reminded that Jonghyun isn't here. That the dynamic is different now.

I know all fans are going to have different feelings and different ways of approaching this, but for me whilst there is a hint of the bittersweet - especially at the start of a performance or song - I'm excited to see them do more. I'm excited to be inspired again, to treasure their new songs, to let them sink into me and become cherished sounds. To drink in all those colours.

We are in a different world now, but I'm proud and happy to see these men - who are such a positive and meaningful influence on me through their musicianship and creative charm - continue, and forge a new path. Most of all I really love the new songs and in particular how they build on both the danceability of their 'Odd' era and the smooth feel of the '1 of 1' era. Such a great combination.

5HINee forever.