LUCY made their comeback in August 2023 with their 4th mini-album, Fever. Today, I am finally getting around to reviewing Fever, which comes after finally getting around to reviewing the title track on this mini-album, Haze. 3 additional songs also feature on the mini-album. Altogether, Fever is definitely another top album from 2023, which is why I nominated it for Best Album of 2023 in the 2023 KPOPREVIEWED Awards. Unfortunately, the chance to support LUCY in the annual event has passed. But do check out why I nominated the album by reading this album review.

1. Hot! (뜨거) – Hot! embraces a more energetic rock sound than usual. It doesn’t come as a surprise to me, as they had venture down the more usual sound that we hear from KPOP band. The addition of prolific guitars and slight presence of EDM also pushes the boundaries even further for LUCY in this song. Yet, they still keep true to themselves with the continuous presence of the violin and their signature vocals. Yet, the former was processed in a way for Hot! that allows it to fit in and feel part of the rest of the upbeat and lively initial track. (8/10)

2. Haze (아지랑이) (Title Track) – Click here for the full review for Haze. (10/10)

3. Magic – What really stood out for me in Magic was the good time vibes. The entirety of this track had me smiling and doing a small bop in my chair. I really like the violin solo, which takes Magic on a jazzier direction. I also liked the use of the violin as accent within the background. Everything else, from vocals to melodies to the band instrumentation, came off as balanced and made Magic a super easy listen. (8/10)  

4. So What (내버려) – The rock emerges again, but takes a heavier and grungier turn in So What. There is such a dramatic flair to the song that makes it so dynamic. The violin itself blends in so well. Adding to that are the solid and well-executed vocals from all of the members, with a particular mention to Sang-yeop who really kills it in So What. But all members, not matter if they contribute via the softer moments or as part of the chorus, added to the dynamism of So What. The chorus is also quite memorable, especially thanks to the melody that gives it drive and so much punchy character. All of this makes for another unforgettable track from the band. (10/10)

Overall Album Rating – 9/10