The Problem with Katseye: Distinct Musical Identity
PC: Sarina Rashid ‘28
After a successful first debut, the global girl group Katseye makes their long anticipated June comeback. Formed through the reality competition show “The Dream Academy”, a partnership between Korean label Hybe and American label Geffen, Katseye was assembled with the ambitious goal of becoming the first true global girl group. Their latest EP, “Beautiful Chaos”, has been in development for nearly a year, fueling anticipation among fans eager to see the group’s musical evolution. However, despite this anticipation, the final product struggles to meet musical expectations, falling short of the vision that was once promised to redefine the boundaries of pop altogether.
“Gabriela” is easily the standout track, with gorgeous melodies that show off the girls’ lower registers. Daniela especially shines, blending her ballroom dance background with her Hispanic heritage through a verse delivered entirely in her native language. The song is polished, elegant, and the strongest on the EP. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the other songs.
“Gnarly”, arguably Katseye’s most recognizable track, is an abrasive hyperpop number with sleek, high-quality production, but lyrics that border on nonsensical. Even after hearing it countless times across social media, I still couldn’t tell you what it’s actually about. “Gameboy”, tries to replicate the catchy appeal of “Touch” with its upbeat production and repetitive chorus, yet its lack of any engaging melody leaves it sounding like an Ariana Grande reject. “Mean Girls”, had the potential to leave a lasting impression, with a powerful message of sisterhood and empowerment, but the repetitive instrumental and Disney Channel-esque lyrics dull the emotional impact. Meanwhile, “M.I.A.” suffers from heavy autotune and excessive vocal filters, stripping away the girls’ unique vocal colors and leaving them sounding nearly identical.
Trying new genres could have been the album’s strength, but the result is a tracklist that lacks musical cohesion or a clear theme. The producers at Hybe Geffen seem to be haphazardly experimenting; throwing out random songs and seeing what sticks. Sonically, these songs have little reason to appear on the same album, and the EP as a whole doesn’t make a solid statement about who Katseye are, what their sound is, or where they fit in today’s music scene.
Evidently, Katseye’s popularity relies almost entirely on the members. Each is a charismatic young woman of color, offering representation in the music industry that many fans have long been waiting for. Their humor and personalities have made them online sensations, with social media being flooded by compilations of their funniest moments and most memorable quotes. Their talent is undeniable—all of these girls are stars in their own right and, with sharper artistic direction, could become the next big thing in pop music. However, until their music catches up to them, the potential of the girls, and Katseye as a whole, will remain unrealized.