First Listen:

Definitely different. I like that the vocals play a larger part in this song. It wouldn’t have been fitting for this to be too rap-heavy since it’s so damn sad. Taeyang, Seungri, and Daesung’s voices were absolutely heavenly in this. They don’t try to reach for too much. They’re restrained, yet powerful.

Speaking of rap, this is the first time that I haven’t been totally in love with GD and TOP’s raps. They almost seemed too slow? Too measured? I’m not sure how to describe it.

After Multiple Listens:

Usually when songs produced by Teddy have such a distinctive intro, the verses end up being completely different and the chorus changes later on (see Can’t Nobody, Stupid Liar, and Love Song for example). I like that the change isn’t too dramatic this time around as it was with Stupid Liar. Rather, the song builds as opposed to changing direction entirely.

I’m a bit more accepting of GD and TOP’s raps. I’ve come to like TOP’s bits, actually. His raps show variety. GD’s still seems disjointed to me. I’m not sure how to phrase it exactly. Like the flow isn’t quite right? Maybe that was intentional. I want to see it performed before I make my final verdict.

First Watching:

Wow. The video is stunning. I viewed it full screen and in 1080p so it was absolutely stunning, videography-wise. The parallel editing spoke volumes of how Big Bang and the girl are separate. This is similar in feel to 2NE1’s Lonely, in that they all embody one person who has been separated from a lover.

In a way, I think the girl represents music. Often, many people personify music as a female. I think this video speaks of the time when they couldn’t really do what they loved most, which is to be involved with music. I’m waiting on lyrics translations to make my final verdict on what the video symbolizes, but for now, my theory is that the girl isn’t just a girl, but is also music.