Melancholic Echoes: Disappointment and Nostalgia in Lee Seung Gi’s 6th Album — And…
Writing this review has been quite a challenge for some reasons. This album isn’t one I would normally choose to revisit, primarily because some of the production and creative decisions left me feeling disappointed. Overall, the project seemed to lack the cohesion and spark I was hoping for, making it difficult to forge a deeper connection with the music. However, despite my reservations, I believe it’s important to examine the album more closely. Even though it didn’t resonate with me as much as I’d hoped, reflecting on its strengths and weaknesses might uncover some intriguing aspects worth discussing.
I reviewed this album back in 2015, but over the years, my perspective has evolved. I’ve noticed several missteps that now contribute to a sense that the album feels somewhat half-baked. These issues have become increasingly apparent with time, prompting me to reconsider its overall impact and the creative choices behind it. It’s fascinating how our perceptions of music can change, and I’m eager to share my thoughts with you.
And… was ultimately released on June 10, 2015, after initially being slated for February of the same year. The delay was officially attributed to ‘personal reasons,’ though in hindsight, that explanation felt like a half-hearted excuse. Dropping a ballad-heavy album right in the summer was a puzzling choice that made me question the direction he and his management were aiming for. Summer charts were packed with upbeat, energetic hits, and a reflective, melancholy album didn’t fit the season’s vibe. In that context, releasing this project felt like setting it up for an uphill battle — a tough sell when most listeners were in the mood for lighter, more lively tunes. This timing alone created a challenging path for the album’s success right from the start.
While the initial production process reportedly went smoothly, everything seemed to spiral into chaos after the release date was pushed back. I can’t help but feel they should have stuck to the original timeline. The entire promotion plan was scrapped, and what followed felt like a rush job with little cohesion. He barely promoted the album, the music video file ended up corrupted, and his team limited the promotion period to a single week. Unsurprisingly, the reception was lukewarm — especially when compared to the acclaim of Forest, which resonated more strongly with his audience.
There was also an unexpected last-minute switch to the album’s title track. Initially, Love was chosen to lead the album, but just before the release, they changed it to And Goodbye. To me, this decision missed the mark. Love had a brightness and warmth that would have fit the summer vibe perfectly, offering listeners a bit of seasonal spirit. Instead, And Goodbye, while a beautifully composed song, brings a deeply somber, almost haunting feel that clashes with the usual upbeat energy of summer releases. It’s a great track but feels heavy for the season, making it harder for listeners to connect in that moment.
Enough with the production and post-production chaos, let’s dive into the songs.
The album begins with Wind, a beautifully crafted opening track that captivates listeners from the very first note. It starts with a gentle acoustic guitar, establishing an intimate, inviting atmosphere that gradually expands into a grand orchestral arrangement. This progression is handled masterfully — it’s not over-the-top, but instead brings a refreshing energy that feels both uplifting and moving. Combined with Kim Eana’s poetic lyrics, Wind resonates deeply, stirring up nostalgic memories and setting a poignant, reflective tone that draws you in for the rest of the album.
The title track, And Goodbye, brings a British pop-inspired ballad style, featuring repetitive riffs and a layered string arrangement. This song deals with the familiar theme of breakups, yet carries a sense of longing, as if hoping for another chance to meet. While it’s a solid track, the breakup theme feels a bit overused, which makes it less impactful for me.
LOVE, however, brings a different energy. The song unfolds with varied tonal shifts, each evoking different feelings and occasions surrounding love. The arrangement is layered, gradually building up strength until it reaches the bridge section. Yet, for some listeners, the lack of a dramatic climax may make it feel somewhat flat. It’s complex, but it doesn’t quite have the peak that some might expect in such an intricate track.
~Do I? is a delightful surprise on re-listen. This funky track takes Seunggi into new territory, and he even composed it himself. The lyrics are lighthearted and humorous, with Seunggi playfully poking fun at his lack of dance and rap skills. It’s perfect for jamming in the summer, with a catchy, laid-back vibe. Honestly, it’s lively enough that it could have made an interesting title track choice!
You and Me is another breakup song, though its arrangement doesn’t particularly capture my attention. It feels a bit monotonous, lacking the elements that would make it stand out, so it tends to fade into the background compared to the other tracks.
Friends is a bit of a guilty pleasure for me at the time. Unlike most of the album’s love-centric themes, this song is about friendship, offering comfort and support to old friends. Its gentle minor piano chords, guitar, and bass come together beautifully, creating an emotional depth that still resonates with me today. Every time I hear it, it feels like Seunggi is offering a hand of comfort, which I appreciate when I’m going through a tough time.
Carry My Backpack takes a different turn, offering a theme of escape, reflecting a longing for adventure and solo travel. The song’s guitar sections feel reminiscent of a busker’s performance, capturing a free-spirited, wanderer’s energy. While it’s a decent song, it doesn’t quite stand out as much to me.
The final track, The Time We Have Spent Together, is Seunggi’s tribute to his fans, expressing gratitude, apology, and heartfelt thanks for their support since his debut. This ballad carries a gentle rhythm, and the composition, which Seunggi composed himself, is filled with warmth and appreciation. It’s a moving way to close the album, reminding listeners of the strong bond between the artist and his fans.
Listening to this album is like being transported back to the time I was eagerly awaiting its release, filled with the excitement of what it might bring. But revisiting it now, I can’t help but feel a bit underwhelmed. While each song has its own strengths, the album as a whole doesn’t quite connect with me. There’s a sense of disjointedness as if the tracks don’t fully align or reveal a clear direction.
Ultimately, this lack of cohesion makes it difficult to feel truly immersed. Though I appreciate the songs individually, the album doesn’t resonate as deeply as I’d hoped, leaving me with a sense of distance. Still, it’s a memorable piece that captures a moment in time, and perhaps that, in itself, makes it worth the journey.
