The emotional intensity of the performance and lyrics, notwithstanding, the restraint in production shown throughout the album means it never becomes histrionic. “Shine On You” is supported by an acoustic rhythm guitar and a floating electric lead that seems ripped from an eighties hair ballad in the best way.

Guitars are used as sparingly as background harmonies but when they are employed they’re done well.

The transformation of “Illusion” from piano-backed murmuring to a passionate spectacle is led by the introduction of drums and an electric guitar that gradually finds its voice in the melody. The nostalgic instrumentation in songs like “Shine On You” and “Illusion” bring a timeless quality to the album. It is softer and more resigned with an overwhelming tone of gentle romance. It is not an overly unhappy album by any means and would not serve well as a soundtrack to an emotional breakdown. Onew’s performance of the emotional cuts is smooth enough to colour the sadness with a sweetness that hints at a hopeful future. “Sign” is reflective but the almost jaunty keys and strategic use of light percussion and brass is a bright addition to the melancholy. The effect is poetic as much as it is moving.Īlthough many of the tracks on this album have a sorrowful theme, there are lighter moments. The emotions have a dreamlike quality as they’re not unravelled from their complexity. Missing a person, remembering a person, and what that means is not so much explained as sketched in fragments over the course of the record. While the songs superficially refer to a person or love affair, the themes mostly explore memory, longing, and identity as it relates to relationships. The sensitivity in the lyricism of the songs of Voice is one of the most touching elements of the record. The ease with which he switches between wistfully subdued and the wail of the high notes is incredible.

That being said, the plaintive keys and string interludes combined with Onew’s gripping delivery of the emotive lyrics are more than strong enough to thrill a listener. A ballad that has no percussive elements, supporting vocals or climatic chorus is a risk as a lead single. “Blue” is one of the standout cuts not just because of its heady arrangement but because of the decision to release it as the title track of the album.

Shinee onew blue lyrics