Throughout much of Ateez’s Golden Hour series, I have thought about their appearance on Epik High’s Epikase show. When asked about what concerns he has had lately, Hongjoong stated that the group has been wrestling with the question, “How can we be a group that can go on for a long time?” Epik High sympathized with the tension that some fans want their favorite group to maintain their sound, while others would criticize them for not evolving.
After some time exploring a variety of genres, from tongue-in-cheek hip hop to vibey R&B to synth-driven dance pop, Ateez have returned to a more familiar, bombastic EDM sound with “Adrenaline.” It is far from their richest track melodically or thematically, but nevertheless satisfies with elements that are quintessentially Ateez. Fast-paced yet danceable, it perfectly highlights their powerful performance energy.
“Adrenaline” pretty much brings what its title suggests: a rush of energy and excitement. The song capitalizes on the members’ husky lower registers (particularly Yeosang and Jongho) to create intensity. The first verse showcases Hongjoong’s confident flow, then ramps up as Jongho transitions from his chest voice to powerful belting. In the pre-chorus, San and Seonghwa aggressively shout-sing as the synths ascend and propel the song forward. The beat drops into the chorus, which is mostly instrumental except for the line “We’re pumpin’ adrenaline.” The chorus may be empty, but the hard-hitting beats make the song a club anthem. Fittingly, these sections of MV focus on Ateez’s intense choreography.
“Adrenaline” is a song made for performance, one that will surely make a major impact during concerts. Each member has a moment to shine in the center, with Seonghwa and Mingi having fierce standout moments and Yeosang and Wooyoung leading dance breaks. The most compelling part is the post-bridge dance break, set up like a dance battle, with San leading the Ateez members on one side and Yunho fronting a group of dancers on the other side. Yunho particularly impresses with his break dancing-inspired floor work, falling to the ground and then twisting, sliding, and kicking to flip his body around.
Aside from some glaring AI-aided transitions and visual effects, the MV effectively underscores the momentum of the song. Quick zooms and cuts, for example, accompany the pulsating synths in the chorus. Smartly, the MV varies its speed, including sequences like a slow-motion fight scene during Mingi’s verse, matching the build-up of the song. In other scenes, the image tightens on close-ups, emphasizing the members’ expressive faces. While the dance sequences provide the greatest excitement, the rest of the MV fuels the song or showcases Ateez’s stage presence.
Those who value Ateez’s storytelling in their MVs will find elements that are reminiscent of earlier eras. The desert setting recalls “Pirate King” (not to mention Hongjoong sporting an eyepatch during his verse). Ateez’s lore also continues in the form of a red cube (or “sopro”) that appeared in “In Your Fantasy.” These visual references add to the sense that Ateez are returning to their roots.
Ultimately, “Adrenaline” utilizes what makes Ateez special as a group: the members’ considerable aura, sharp dance moves, seemingly endless energy, and intense passion. We do not know what direction Ateez will pursue next, and how they may evolve. It is likely their next era will not resemble “Adrenaline,” and for the sake of the group’s growth and longevity, perhaps it shouldn’t. But for now it is gratifying to see Ateez return to the niche that is specifically theirs.
