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Leading up to the release of their second mini album later this month, TWS are the latest group to drop a promoted pre-release single. Generally, these have been stronger than the actual title track, with TWS’s own Plot Twist being the obvious exception. That song has gone on to become a mammoth hit on both the charts and my own playlist. It’s hard to see a reality where they don’t end up as my favorite rookies of the year. It’s early days still, but I don’t think I’ve felt as strong a musical kinship with a new group since Golden Child in 2017. 
The rollicking hey! hey! pretty much seals the deal. Composed by members of the same team that made Plot Twist such a hit, the track opts for a driving, rock-infused energy. This sound hits all my musical pleasure centers, but its execution and sense of fullness (an actual bridge!) send it over the top.
Some listeners have compared TWS’s music to early GFriend in the sense that it all sounds like the opening theme to a youth anime. If so, hey! hey! must be soundtracking some summer sports series — lots of running and cheering and (of course) friendship. The track kicks off at a clip as a catchy guitar riff leads into the pulsing beat. The melodies are somewhat reserved here, but feel intentional and satisfying. Then, we launch into a standout pre-chorus that almost acts as its own fan chant. This sets the stage for an even stronger chorus as hey! hey! unveils its full energy. It’s a very optimistic, uplifting sound.
However, hey! hey!‘s most surprising element may be its bridge. In this era of two minute songs, I was shocked to find a thrilling build tucked away in this oft-forgotten segment. Instrumental and melody work together to forge a suitable climax. All that’s missing is a big power note. But even without that highlight, the song’s final chorus and outro send us off on a high. I can only hope the impending title track is this strong.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Production | 9 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 10 |
| RATING | 9.25 |
Grade: A
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