What makes Restart (EP) by Cho Kyuhyun notable?

The EP has already garnered significant attention within the K-pop community, debuting at number one on the Gaon Album Chart. Its lead single, 'Restart', has been praised for its emotional depth and is expected to resonate widely, contributing to Kyuhyun's continued relevance in the genre. Released on January 9, 2024, 'Restart' marks Cho Kyuhyun's return to solo work after his successful tenure with Super Junior. This EP follows his previous album 'Love Story' from 2020, showcasing his growth as a solo artist while continuing to build upon his established vocal prowess in K-pop.

Who is Restart (EP) for?

Restart (EP) works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, poignant emotional reflections and uplifting moments of clarity.

How many songs are on Restart (EP)?

Restart (EP) has 6 tracks, running approximately 23 minutes.

Restart (EP)

Cho Kyuhyun · 2024

23 min · 6 tracks · K-pop

A reflective blend of emotive ballads and uplifting melodies that captures the essence of new beginnings.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Restart — As the titular track, this song encapsulates the themes of renewal and hope, featuring soaring vocals that highlight Kyuhyun's emotional delivery.
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The Story Behind — This track delves into personal narratives, offering a reflective take on relationships that showcases Kyuhyun's lyrical storytelling abilities.
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Was It Love — With its catchy hook and relatable lyrics, this song stands out as a potential hit, blending pop sensibilities with heartfelt emotion.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and emotional delivery, though it remains within familiar K-pop structures.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a gradual build in tempo and intensity, culminating in the more upbeat 'Rainbow' which shifts the mood.
Each track incorporates layered vocal harmonies that highlight Kyuhyun's range, with instrumental arrangements that vary from piano-driven to orchestral.
The EP closes with 'Thanks To You', which features a stripped-down arrangement, contrasting with the preceding tracks and providing a reflective ending.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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, consistent energy levels
poignant emotional reflections
uplifting moments of clarity
short immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on January 9, 2024, 'Restart' marks Cho Kyuhyun's return to solo work after his successful tenure with Super Junior. This EP follows his previous album 'Love Story' from 2020, showcasing his growth as a solo artist while continuing to build upon his established vocal prowess in K-pop.
Stylistic neighbors: Ailee· Gummy· Zion.T