Rating: 8.5/10
BLACKPINK’s JISOO released her debut single, “Flower,” in 2023. Following a brief hiatus, her new EP, “Amortage,” was recently released on Feb. 14. “Amortage” is composed of four songs, including lead single “earthquake.”
JISOO’s return to music officially signals all four BLACKPINK members being active as solo artists simultaneously. ROSÉ released her album “Rosie” in December 2024. LISA and JENNIE released several singles ahead of their respective upcoming albums, “Alter Ego” and “Ruby.”
The EP’s title is a portmanteau of “amor” and “montage.” The combination represents the different stages of romance throughout a relationship.
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
The South Korean singer co-wrote each song on “Amortage,” her first music release since departing from former agency YG Entertainment alongside the other three BLACKPINK members in December 2023. Over the past year, she’s been busy filming dramas “Newtopia” and “Monthly Boyfriend.” JISOO’s feature on the new movie “The Prophet: Omniscient Reader” has also delayed her return to her solo career.
JISOO discussed the process for creating her first solo EP in an interview with Nylon Magazine.
“I always consider the overall harmony of the image, choreography, outfits and concept when selecting music because I perform along with it,” JISOO said. “If I only chose songs based on my personal preference, I might not be able to showcase a wider range of performances. That’s why I select music that creates synergy with the overall presentation, allowing me to show my best self.”
The EP follows JISOO as she moves on from an unexpected, heartbreaking breakup. As it develops, JISOO picks herself up off the ground and revels in her newfound freedom. The EP is a strong message of support for those who found themselves single this February.
The title track, “earthquake,” perfectly encapsulates JISOO’s approach to crafting her solo career. The song opens with an ominous, brooding synth that underscores her husky vocals.
“It hits me like an earthquake,” she sings, describing the sudden, intense feeling of unexpectedly developing feelings for someone.
The message perfectly suits the single’s Valentine’s Day release date.
When the track explodes into its first chorus, it has an electro-pop beat drop similar to Kylie Minogue’s 2023 single “Padam Padam.” The following anti-drop pre-chorus is catchy, pairing well with the accompanying music video’s equally addictive and simple choreography.
The EP’s next song, “Your Love,” is entirely in English, a first for JISOO. Its lyrics expand on the initial shock of “earthquake,” bringing additional depth to the EP.
“Your love feels like the rain/ Feels like a song I used to know,” JISOO sings on the chorus, developing a meaningful storyline within the EP.
These romantic themes come to a crashing halt with “TEARS.” The track serves as a breakup anthem, in which JISOO vows, “Today are my last tears to forget you.”
“TEARS” also contains a bouncy guitar in its instrumental, making it an irresistibly fun listen. The song is a little jarring within the context of the EP, being a harsh shift from your typical Valentine’s Day love songs to a breakup song. JISOO does her best to ease the shift with instrumentals, considering the project is only four songs long.
Building on “TEARS,” she closes out the EP with an assertion of confidence in being alone. This is an empowering and relatable sentiment for those experiencing similar feelings this Valentine’s Day.
The closing track, “Hugs & Kisses,” follows JISOO as she finds confidence in being single. “Hugs & Kisses” provides a reassuring ending to the rise and fall of the relationship described throughout “Amortage.”
Also entirely in English, JISOO reveals the truth behind her sudden breakup — an unfaithful partner.
“Don’t need your hugs and kisses, hugs and kisses,” she sings, chastising them.
“Amortage” develops JISOO’s solo artistry well, setting the stage for her future musical endeavors. BLACKPINK also teased a world tour this month, giving fans even more cause for excitement. Solo or otherwise, JISOO has proven herself a success within the music industry.
