What makes New Kids: Continue by iKon notable?

The album debuted at number 1 on the Gaon Album Chart, showcasing its commercial success within South Korea. Additionally, it received positive reviews for its blend of genres and production quality, further establishing iKon's reputation as a leading act in K-pop and Korean hip-hop. Released on August 2, 2018, 'New Kids: Continue' is iKon's second studio album, following their successful debut in 2015. At this point, iKon was solidifying their place in the K-pop scene after garnering attention from their earlier projects and participating in various music festivals.

Who is New Kids: Continue for?

New Kids: Continue works well if you're into short bursts of catchy energy, for upbeat gatherings and emotional highs with rhythmic beats.

How many songs are on New Kids: Continue?

New Kids: Continue has 5 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

New Kids: Continue

iKon · 2018

17 min · 5 tracks · K-pop

A vibrant mix of catchy melodies and urban beats that captures the youthful energy and emotional struggles of modern life.

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Top tracks — play these first

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죽겠다 (KILLING ME) — This track stands out with its emotional intensity, combining heartfelt lyrics about longing with an infectious chorus that resonates with listeners.
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바람 (FREEDOM) — Offering a more upbeat sound, this song encapsulates themes of liberation and self-discovery, highlighted by its dynamic instrumentation and vocal performances.
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ONLY YOU — Characterized by its romantic lyrics and melodic hook, this track showcases the group's vocal harmonies while reflecting on themes of devotion and desire.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid production and varied arrangements but doesn't fully stand out in the crowded K-pop landscape.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a strong urban beat and layered vocal harmonies, setting a high-energy tone for the EP.
Each song features a distinct arrangement, with varying instrumentation that includes electronic elements and traditional K-pop sounds.
The final track concludes with a softer melody and introspective lyrics, creating a contrast to the preceding upbeat songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short bursts of catchy energy
for upbeat gatherings
emotional highs with rhythmic beats
sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, immersive albums
seek deep introspective themes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on August 2, 2018, 'New Kids: Continue' is iKon's second studio album, following their successful debut in 2015. At this point, iKon was solidifying their place in the K-pop scene after garnering attention from their earlier projects and participating in various music festivals.
Stylistic neighbors: Winner· Ateez· Stray Kids