What makes Press It by Lee Taemin notable?

'Press It' debuted at number one on the Gaon Album Chart and solidified Taemin's status as a leading figure in K-pop. The album's single 'Drip Drop' received significant airplay and critical acclaim, marking a successful entry into his solo career. Released on January 1, 2016, 'Press It' is Taemin's debut solo album following his work with the popular boy group SHINee. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from group dynamics to establishing himself as a solo artist, showcasing a more mature sound distinct from SHINee's style.

Press It works well if you're into steady mid-tempo flow throughout, emotive vocals for self-reflection and for upbeat gatherings.

How many songs are on Press It?

Press It has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Press It

Lee Taemin · 2016

37 min · 10 tracks · K-pop

A sultry blend of R&B grooves and pop melodies, showcasing Taemin's vocal range and emotional depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Drip Drop — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious beat and smooth vocals, highlighting Taemin's transition into a more mature sound.
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Press Your Number — The title track showcases Taemin's vocal prowess and features an addictive chorus that captures the listener's attention while blending genres seamlessly.
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Soldier — With its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, this track reveals a deeper emotional layer to Taemin's artistry, contrasting with the more upbeat songs on the album.
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Sexuality — 'Sexuality' stands out for its bold themes and sultry production, further pushing the boundaries of K-pop by exploring adult themes in a sophisticated manner.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks a strong cohesive arc throughout its runtime.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a steady mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued ballad that shifts the album's energy.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, with Taemin often singing in a call-and-response style with backing vocals.
The album closes with two slower songs that gradually decrease in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere as it concludes.

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

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

steady mid-tempo flow throughout
emotive vocals for self-reflection
for upbeat gatherings
catchy choruses for sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, contemplative music
seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 1, 2016, 'Press It' is Taemin's debut solo album following his work with the popular boy group SHINee. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from group dynamics to establishing himself as a solo artist, showcasing a more mature sound distinct from SHINee's style.
Stylistic neighbors: Kai· B.I· Jimin