With their second release of 2025, NCT DREAM marks a remarkable return to form.
Released on November 17th, the mini-album ‘Beat It Up’ is a well-rounded showcase of NCT DREAM’s strengths, beginning with a strong title track, followed by a catchy pop piece, a dreamy R&B segment, two unit tracks, and finishing with an energetic closer.
For long-time fans, it could evoke memories of 2019’s ‘We Boom’, in the best possible way. Here’s a track-by-track overview.
Kicking off with power, the title track ‘Beat It Up’ introduces a striking and memorable intro, featuring a chorus that is clearer and more accessible than many of their previous works. This stylish hip-hop piece is heightened by an exhilarating middle-to-end section.
Following is ‘Rush’, a track constructed with interwoven rap and vocal segments, complemented by smooth rhythms and a synth-driven, high-pitched chorus. The lyrics focus on a rush of emotions, effectively mirroring that sensation with bursts of sound.
Next, we shift to ‘Cold Coffee’, the standout track of the EP. It features soaring vocals that contemplate enduring love. If this mini-album represents NCT DREAM’s return, this song epitomizes that sentiment—with its grand vibe and an anthemic chorus that invites singalongs.
The first sub-unit track, ‘Butterflies’, is a ballad showcasing the harmonious interplay between vocalists RENJUN, HAECHAN, and CHENLE. While it nearly eclipses some of NCT’s other ballads, it may require a few extra listens for its full impact to resonate.
As expected, the rappers contribute their own counterbalance to the ballad with ‘Tempo’, performed by MARK, JENO, JAEMIN, and JISUNG. Clearly influenced by 90s rap battles, this track features flows that fit well with a beat co-written by GRAMMY-nominated British artist MNEK, showcasing the members' notable growth.
Lastly, ‘TRICKY’ is a strong contender for the best track of the album. Its unexpected bass-heavy chorus—enhanced by DREAM’s flawless harmonies—and a rap-driven bridge maintain the energy prevalent throughout the album. It concludes the release on a high note, leaving the listener eager for more.
8/10
Words: Maria Letícia L. Gomes
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With their second release of 2025, NCT DREAM marks a genuine comeback. The 'Beat It Up' mini-album, launched on November 17th, is, from beginning to