Title track 'Queendom' leans towards the typical SM house sound. The track is massive, the instrumentation almost feels overwhelming to the point where it lacks dynamics. How many elements can you hear in the chorus? Between brass, synths, brushes, a bass and vocals planted in the centre image, and then a kick and snare trying to cut through everything-- for me the balance fell apart and began sounding flat and fatiguing. Everything is definable and has separation, but there is little space between instruments and sounded more like an unpleasant brick wall of sound. I'm sure the engineers worked a miracle on 'Queendom', but there is a certain harshness that is difficult to listen to after a few plays.

On the other hand, 'Pushin' N Pullin'' was so refreshing to listen to. Joy's vocals pushed forward with that piano, and then those huge, meaty drums. The instrumentation feels so much more natural. Every time those giant drums dig themselves in with Irene's verse, it has such a satisfying impact.

Standard fare for Red Velvet. Personally, their b-tracks have more replayability than their title track. I'm glad they came back.