As mentioned previously on a number of reviews. many male idols have reached the age in which they have to enlist into the military. And since it is common for some members to hold off, it has resulted in entire groups enlisting around the same time. HIGHLIGHT is one of the names that come to mind. Doojoon, Yoseob and Gikwang have all enlisted, while Dongwoon has been confirmed to start early next month. Even former member Junhyung has enlisted. So, while we won’t be getting any highlights for the next two years or so, Dongwoon has left us with a new solo mini-album and the title track, In The Silence.
In The Silence is a classically driven instrumental ballad. And it is a beautiful ballad, despite its emotional lyrics, that is bound to make people cry. Essentially, Dongwoon asks for the end of his relationship because he knows the direction it is going will just be painful for him and his lover. In a sense, it is a very hurtful way to part with someone but logically it makes senses. But it sounds like it isn’t a permanent breakup, so I guess it can be related to him parting ways for the next two years. But as I said, it has a beautifully sounding instrumental and his voices pairs amazingly with it. You can fill the emotions and pain behind his voice, which I think makes this song so much more touching. Never did I expect a high note from him but he does so in a way that gives the song that peak it needed but also adds to that emotion. Overall, it is a nice ballad that I am sure that I will be returning to often in the coming weeks.
The music video is extremely simple but it is definitely one that ‘speaks volumes’. It starts an empty chair and later with Dongwoon sitting alone. Surrounding him is a bunch of empty chairs that the classical instrument players will later fill up. I found that to be extremely impactful, relating back to his need to ‘leave’ and ‘be alone’. I found the scenes with the light swinging across his face (and him sitting in pitch darkness) to be equally as haunting. The black and white filter just makes things so much more aesthetically pleasing.
Song – 10/10
Music Video – 10/10
Overall Rating – 10/10
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